encampment

noun

en·​camp·​ment in-ˈkamp-mənt 

en-

1

a

: the place where a group (such as a body of troops) is encamped

b

: the individuals that make up an encampment

2

: the act of encamping : the state of being encamped

Synonyms of encampment

• campground
• camp
• campsite

Examples of encampment in a Sentence

a recreational area that will serve as this year's encampment for the Scouts' jamboree

Recent Examples on the Web

The HEART team will work with people in encampments and on the streets, connecting individuals to behavioral health, medical, substance use, and supportive services and will assist them with identification documents, benefits enrollment and assessments, city officials said. —Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 May 2026

Bass’ signature initiative to tackle homelessness did not launch any new encampment operations this week. —Los Angeles Times, 30 May 2026

Minnesota Congresswoman Kelly Morrison, a Democrat, visited in March after ICE detained thousands of people from her state and flew them to the encampment during the federal crackdown targeting Minneapolis. —Kristin Wright, NPR, 30 May 2026

Even though San José remains one of the safer large cities, the visible impacts of homelessness and encampments can make areas feel unsafe and unwelcoming. —Mercury News Editorial Board, Mercury News, 29 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

encampment

noun

en·​camp·​ment in-ˈkamp-mənt 

1

: the act of encamping : the state of being encamped

2

: the site of a camp