encircle
verb (used with object)
to form a circle around; surround; encompass.
was encircling
-
past progressiveof encircle.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Even when the Red Army was encircling the German Sixth Army outside Stalingrad in late 1942, the Füehrer refused permission for his troops to stage a breakout.
From Washington Post ● Nov. 9, 2022
We continued bemoaning our fate, conscious suddenly of a publicist who, we feared, was encircling us the way a hyena might a celebrity-bothering impala that he wanted to rip limb from limb.
From New York Times ● May 3, 2011
He was encircling the ancient fortress of Metz, German kingbolt position on this sector and strongest shield in front of the coal, steel and pig iron of the Saar Basin.
From Time Magazine Archive
The swordfish was encircling the boat with line.
From Time Magazine Archive
And again, like a furry whirlwind, Chum was encircling them; chasing the strays into place.
From His Dog by Albert Payson Terhune
