Entry Word: encompass

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to form a circle around <a necklace of sapphire-blue lakes encompasses the town> — see surround
2 to have as part of a whole <textbooks on American history are now likely to encompass its social history as well as its political and military history> — see include
3 to surround or cover closely <a fog of mystery has long encompassed this fraternal organization, which is known for its secret rituals> — see enfold 1