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

Also at Everlane, Vukelich increased her responsibilities from human resources to encompass stores, customer experience, international markets, e-commerce and marketing, the statement indicated. —David Moin, Footwear News, 21 Oct. 2025

Healthopia encompasses aspects of self-care and hospitality in both retail settings and consumer products. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 21 Oct. 2025

Kingsnorth’s conception encompasses all these modes. —Cal Revely-Calder, New Yorker, 20 Oct. 2025

In its combined form with Cricket, the SI Kids partnership will encompass print, digital and interactive media. —Dade Hayes, Deadline, 20 Oct. 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