entrench

verb

en·​trench in-ˈtrench How to pronounce entrench (audio)
en-
variants or less commonly intrench
entrenched also intrenched; entrenching also intrenching; entrenches also intrenches

transitive verb

1
a
: to place within or surround with a trench especially for defense
b
: to place (oneself) in a strong defensive position
c
: to establish solidly
entrenched themselves in the business
2
: to cut into : furrow
specifically : to erode downward so as to form a trench

intransitive verb

1
: to dig or occupy a trench for defensive purposes
2
: to enter upon or take over something unfairly, improperly, or unlawfully : encroach
used with on or upon
entrenchment noun

Examples of entrench in a Sentence

officials who have tried to entrench themselves in office a father who entrenched in our minds the belief that hard work pays off
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.
The initiative aims to foster pathways for diverse performers and professionals to entrench themselves more deeply in Nashville's mainstream country industry. Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 Now entrenched in a potential 14-billion-euro hostile takeover, BBVA has decided to keep its bid alive despite a recent condition from the Spanish government that the takeover may only proceed if the two banks do not integrate their operations for at least three years. Ruxandra Iordache, CNBC, 2 July 2025 Despite facing zero charges from the feds alongside Combs, testimony at the lower Manhattan federal courthouse indicates Khorram was deeply entrenched in many of the allegations discussed at trial. Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 26 June 2025 With no prohibition on conquest, national borders shifted regularly through violence, and empires expanded by force, entrenching global inequalities. Oona A. Hathaway, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for entrench

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of entrench was in 1548

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Entrench.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/entrench. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

entrench

verb
en·​trench in-ˈtrench How to pronounce entrench (audio)
1
a
: to dig, place within, surround with, or occupy a trench especially for defense
b
: to establish solidly
2
: encroach sense 1
used with on or upon

More from Merriam-Webster on entrench

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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