encroach
verb (used without object)
to advance beyond proper, established, or usual limits; make gradual inroads.
has been encroaching
-
present perfect progressiveof encroach (3rd person singular).present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
This 2.5-inch lizard lives exclusively in the West Texas dunes, where oil and gas production has been encroaching on its territory, the groups argued.
From Salon ● Jul. 15, 2026
Under the tropical sun, vegetation has been encroaching on the vast concrete and metal structures that once vented flames created by giant rockets blasting off into space.
From Barron's ● Feb. 18, 2026
Federal officials say that such drastic action is necessary because the barred owl has been encroaching on the territory of the spotted owl for half a century.
From New York Times ● May 6, 2024
Airbus has been encroaching into a traditional Boeing niche with its fast-selling A321neo.
From Reuters ● Mar. 9, 2015
For some 80 years, since the time the land was first settled and prairie fires were brought under control, woody vegetation has been encroaching into areas that were formerly grassland.
From Ecological Observations on the Woodrat, Neotoma floridana by Fitch, Henry S.
