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Definition of encircle

encircle

/ɪnˈsɝːkəl/
en · cir · cle
Adjective:encircling
•
Past Simple:encircled
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Past Participle:encircled
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Present Participle:encircling
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encircle Lexical Profile

encircle Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To form a circle around someone or something; to surround or enclose completely.

Example

"Tall pine trees encircle the quiet mountain lake."

2

To move or travel all the way around a place or object.

Example

"The research satellite was launched to encircle the globe every ninety minutes."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for encircle

• Nearby Words

enchantment
enchantress
enchilada
encircle
encirclement
enclave
enclose

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in late Middle English from the prefix 'en-' (meaning 'in' or 'around') and 'circle', which derives via Old French from the Latin 'circulus', a diminutive of 'circus' (meaning 'ring').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Encircle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/encircle
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