Synonyms of encircle

encircle

verb

in-ˈsər-kəl 

1

as in to circle

to travel completely around

communication satellites encircling the earth

Synonyms & Similar Words

• circle
• traverse
• orbit
• cross
• ring
• circuit
• round
• circumvent
• circumnavigate
• girdle
• compass
• circumambulate
• perambulate

2

as in to surround

to form a circle around

immediately after announcing their engagement, the couple was encircled by their applauding friends

Synonyms & Similar Words

• surround
• encompass
• circle
• enclose
• ring
• embrace
• gird
• circumscribe
• compass
• wreathe
• environ
• girdle
• wall
• fence (in)
• besiege
• hem (in)
• entrench
• beset
• close in
• swarm
• cordon (off)
• invest

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of encircle

Thursday saw one of the heaviest days of fighting yet, after the Houthis launched an all-out offensive seeking to encircle the city. — Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 4 Oct. 2026

Monumental-scale projections examining profound questions of bodies, landscape, and existence encircle a centerpiece of sculptural Jeju volcanic rocks. — Vivienne Chow, ARTnews.com, 29 Sep. 2026

With that official, the Astros encircled Espada in the visitors’ batting cage at Sutter Health Park. — Matt Kawahara, Houston Chronicle, 27 Sep. 2026

The shoe is a high-heeled sandal made of nuanced lines and subtle curves, appearing to wrap the foot in ribbon-like bands that encircle the ankle and fasten with a gold buckle. — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026