Main Entry: en·croach

Pronunciation: \in-ˈkrōch, en-\

Function: intransitive verb

Etymology: Middle English encrochen to get, seize, from Anglo-French encrocher, from en- + croc, croche hook — more at crochet

Date: 1528

1 : to enter by gradual steps or by stealth into the possessions or rights of another
2 : to advance beyond the usual or proper limits <the gradually encroaching sea>

synonyms see trespass

— en·croach·er noun

— en·croach·ment \-ˈkrōch-mənt\ noun