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Definition of encirclement

encirclement

/ɪnˈsɝːkəlmənt/
en · cir · cle · ment
Plural:encirclements
•
Adjective:encircled
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encirclement Lexical Profile

encirclement Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The act of surrounding something completely, or the state of being surrounded on all sides.

Example

"The rapid growth of suburban neighborhoods led to the gradual encirclement of the historic nature reserve."

2

A strategic maneuver or geopolitical condition in which a territory, group, or position is isolated by surrounding forces or rival states.

Example

"Historians often study how the diplomatic encirclement of the country influenced its foreign policy decisions."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

enchantress
enchilada
encircle
encirclement
enclave
enclose
enclosure

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 19th century by combining the verb 'encircle' (from the prefix 'en-' and the noun 'circle', ultimately from Latin 'circulus', meaning 'small ring') with the noun-forming suffix '-ment'.

Cite this Entry

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