Main Entry: en·trench

Pronunciation: \in-ˈtrench, en-\

Variant(s): also in·trench \in-\

Function: verb

Date: 1548

transitive verb

1 a : to place within or surround with a trench especially for defense b : to place (oneself) in a strong defensive position c : to establish solidly <entrenched themselves in the business>
2 : to cut into : furrow; specifically : to erode downward so as to form a trenchintransitive verb 1 : to dig or occupy a trench for defensive purposes
2 : to enter upon or take over something unfairly, improperly, or unlawfully : encroach —used with on or upon

— en·trench·ment \-mənt\ noun