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

• surround
• encircle

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

The class encompasses information about exercises to prepare the mother for birth, relaxation and coping techniques, pain control options, labor positioning, induction and C-section basics, recovery and welcoming baby. —Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 June 2025

The threats guiding the world of medical device cybersecurity encompass many attack types. —Christian Espinosa, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025

This council encompasses diverse organizations, representatives of various ethnicities, including Kurds, Baluchis, Arabs, Turkmens, and political figures with varied perspectives. —Beth Bailey, FOXNews.com, 25 June 2025

The property encompasses a generous 8,002 square feet of land. —Bay Area Home Report, Mercury News, 24 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for encompass

• compass
• rumpus

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