surrounding

[suh-roun-ding]

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.

adjective

1. enclosing or encircling.

2. being the environment or adjacent area.

Word History and Origins

Origin of surrounding¹

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

Synonym Study

See environment.

Example Sentences

Despite the announcement, Israeli airstrikes continued overnight in parts of Gaza City and Khan Younis, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding the proposed cease-fire.

From Salon

Mr Hayden also runs a security firm which supports a number of pubs and clubs across Port Talbot and the surrounding area.

From BBC

Just sitting on a bench at the top of the stadium to watch high school football and the surrounding view is something unique and invigorating in a state that has many spectacular views.

From Los Angeles Times

At a small table in the middle of Hollywood’s Sightglass Coffee, the conversation about the AFI vocalist’s possible sudden death has drawn the eyes of coffee drinkers in the surrounding area.

From Los Angeles Times

“Conditions in these facilities not only affect the lives of those detained, but also impact the surrounding communities,” wrote the bill’s author, state Sen. María Elena Durazo, a Democrat from Los Angeles.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• neighboring