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

"There's a lot of burn scar areas from our local fires and surrounding areas which are good for erosion. There's a lot of sediment that is falling down," DeLorenzi explained.

Read more on Barron's

The Rose Bowl has probably the best tailgating surroundings in the country that extends for acres with beautiful grass, trees, hills and views.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The textile mills of Manchester and its surrounding region came to depend on the climate and soils—as well as cruel bondage—in America’s new territory.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

In the statement, the family said they were supporting the investigation and asked people "to not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the accident".

Read more on BBC

It is hoped the move will boost safety, cut disturbances and shield vulnerable residents and animals from loud noises, after years of debate surrounding the negative impact of fireworks.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• neighboring