encircle

verb

en·​cir·​cle in-ˈsər-kəl How to pronounce encircle (audio)
en-
encircled; encircling; encircles
Synonyms of encirclenext

transitive verb

1
: to form a circle around : surround
2
: to pass completely around
encirclement noun

Examples of encircle in a Sentence

A crowd of reporters encircled the mayor. communication satellites encircling the earth
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Within moments, a small crowd of counter-protesters encircled him. Ruby Cramer, New Yorker, 23 Jan. 2026 The Moroccan-style domed white villas, which encircle the place like sugar cubes, satisfy the pilgrim’s sense of arriving at a glamorous landmark conjured from the glossy magazines of her youth. Alex Postman, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Jan. 2026 The young woman’s remains were found encircled by about 10 dingoes, Australia's native wild dogs, on the beach north of Maheno Wreck, Wide Bay District Inspector Paul Algie previously announced in a press conference. Sam Gillette, PEOPLE, 21 Jan. 2026 Scherr’s teammates encircled her until trainers were able to get to her. Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for encircle

Word History

Etymology

Middle English enserclen

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of encircle was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Encircle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/encircle. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

encircle

verb
en·​cir·​cle in-ˈsər-kəl How to pronounce encircle (audio)
1
: to form a circle around : surround
2
: to go completely around
encirclement noun

More from Merriam-Webster on encircle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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