entrench

[en-trench]

verb (used with object)

1. to place in a position of strength; establish firmly or solidly.

   safely entrenched behind undeniable facts.

   Synonyms: embed, implant, set, ensconce, settle

2. to dig trenches for defensive purposes around (oneself, a military position, etc.).

verb (used without object)

1. to encroach; trespass; infringe (usually followed by on orupon ).

   to entrench on the domain or rights of another.

entrench

/ ɪnˈtrɛntʃ /

verb

1. (tr) to construct (a defensive position) by digging trenches around it

2. (tr) to fix or establish firmly, esp so as to prevent removal or change

3. (intr; foll by on or upon) to trespass or encroach; infringe

Other Word Forms

• entrencher noun
• entrenched adjective
• reentrench verb

Word History and Origins

Origin of entrench¹

First recorded in 1545–55; en- ¹ + trench

Example Sentences

It’s an attempt by climate-obsessed politicians to entrench their agenda before voters in democracies can kill it.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He described Proposition 50 as favoring entrenched politicians instead of voters.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

This churn is the result of a bundle of policies and institutions that encourage innovation at the firm level, and protects yesterday’s innovators without making them entrenched.

Read more on Barron's

For one thing, they already had an entrenched starter in Geno Smith.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Eyewitnesses said the clashes erupted in the Tel al-Hawa neighbourhood in southern Gaza City after a Hamas force of more than 300 fighters moved to storm a residential block where Dughmush gunmen were entrenched.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• define 
• embed 
• ensconce 
• fortify 
• ingrain 
• strengthen