encompass

verb

en·​com·​pass in-ˈkəm-pəs 

en-,

 also  -ˈkäm-

encompassed; encompassing; encompasses

transitive verb

1

a

: include, comprehend

a plan that encompasses a number of aims

b

: envelop

2

a

: to form a circle about : enclose

b

obsolete : to go completely around

3

: bring about, accomplish

encompass a task

encompassment

in-ˈkəm-pə-smənt 

en-

 also  -ˈkäm-

noun

Synonyms

• circle
• compass
• embrace
• encircle
• enclose
• inclose
• environ
• gird
• girdle
• ring
• surround
• wreathe

Examples of encompass in a Sentence

The district encompasses most of the downtown area.

a neighborhood encompassed by a highway

Recent Examples on the Web

Bali’s newest lingerie collection, Bali Breathe, encompasses just that. —Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 9 Aug. 2024

The family’s land holdings also encompass historic grouse moors in northern England and Scotland. —Shawn Tully, Fortune, 7 Aug. 2024

When they’re needed, their presence is all encompassing. —Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 7 Aug. 2024

The preliminary reading of the GDP for the second quarter, which encompasses April, May and June, came in at 2.8% — well ahead of forecasts. —Steve Kopack, NBC News, 5 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Kids Definition

encompass

verb

en·​com·​pass in-ˈkəm-pəs 

-ˈkäm-

1

: to form a circle about : surround

2

a

: to cover or surround especially so as to hide or protect

b

: to take in as a part : include

encompassment

-mənt 

noun