surrounding

American  

[suh-roun-ding] / səˈraʊn dɪŋ /

noun

1. something that surrounds.

2. surroundings, environing things, circumstances, conditions, etc.; environment.

   He was too sick to be aware of his surroundings.

3. the act of encircling or enclosing.

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adjective

1. enclosing or encircling.

2. being the environment or adjacent area.

Related Words

See environment.

Etymology

Origin of surrounding

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English: literally “inundation”; surround, -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

While there haven’t been any controversies surrounding ExpressVPN, Kape Technologies’ suspected ties to the Israeli military may raise concerns.

From Salon • Apr. 1, 2026

Military operations are more complex than many people think, especially if they involve invading a hostile country and there aren’t many accessible bases in surrounding countries.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

The Army is reviewing the circumstances surrounding the mission, Spokesman Maj Montrell Russell told the BBC in a statement, including whether the crews complied with federal flying regulations and aviation safety protocols.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

While Air Canada has framed the move as a planned transition, the timing highlights the mounting pressure surrounding Rousseau’s tenure.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

Curiously, the roof and surrounding yard were filled with scientific equipment.

From "City Spies" by James Ponti

Related Words

• neighboring