encroaches; encroached; encroaching
1
: to gradually move or go into an area that is beyond the usual or desired limits
The suburbs encroach further into the rural areas each year.
—usually + on or uponPeople are encroaching on the animal's habitat.
The ocean is slowly encroaching upon the shoreline.
2
: to gradually take or begin to use or affect something that belongs to someone else or that someone else is using
—usually + on or upon
He argues that the law would encroach on/upon states' authority.
The new company is encroaching on their traditional market.
Cite this Entry
“Encroach.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/encroach. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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