First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
encircle
verb en·cir·cle \in-ˈsər-kəl, en-\
: to form a circle around (someone or something) : to surround (someone or something)
Full Definition of ENCIRCLE
transitive verb
1
: to form a circle around : surround
2
: to pass completely around
— en·cir·cle·ment \-mənt\ noun
See encircle defined for English-language learners
See encircle defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of ENCIRCLE
Middle English enserclen
Related to ENCIRCLE
- Synonyms
- circle, circuit, circumnavigate, circumvent, compass, girdle, orbit, ring, round
ENCIRCLE Defined for Kids
encircle
verb en·cir·cle \in-ˈsər-kəl\
en·cir·cleden·cir·cling
Definition of ENCIRCLE for Kids
1
: to make a circle around : surround <A deep moat encircles the castle.>
2
: to go completely around <The dogs encircled the sheep.>
Learn More About ENCIRCLE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: en clairPrevious Word in the Dictionary: enciphering alphabetAll Words Near: encircle
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up encircle? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).