encompass

verb

en·​com·​pass in-ˈkəm-pəs How to pronounce encompass (audio)
en-,
 also  -ˈkäm-
encompassed; encompassing; encompasses

transitive verb

1
a
: include, comprehend
a plan that encompasses a number of aims
b
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 How to pronounce encompass (audio)
en-
 also  -ˈkäm-
noun

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
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.
Ellison’s interests extend well beyond real estate, encompassing a serious watch collection, high-performance yachts, and his role as cofounder of SailGP, a global sailing league launched in 2018. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 4 July 2025 The foundation has now grown to encompass other crafts and traditional Korean practices. Thessaly La Force, Travel + Leisure, 4 July 2025 The Wall Street investment bank updates its analyst focus list every month, encompassing JPMorgan's top stock ideas for growth, income, value and short investment strategies. Brian Evans, CNBC, 3 July 2025 Her career encompasses blockbusters, rom-coms, arthouse fare, and works of provocation, with notable examples being Batman & Robin (1997), Les Misérables (1998), The House That Jack Built (2018), Red, White & Royal Blue (2023), and Oh, Canada (2024). Allison Degrushe Published, EW.com, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for encompass

Word History

Etymology

Middle English

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of encompass was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Encompass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/encompass. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

encompass

verb
en·​com·​pass in-ˈkəm-pəs How to pronounce encompass (audio)
-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 noun

More from Merriam-Webster on encompass

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