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Definition of encrust

encrust

/ɪnˈkrʌst/
(UK: incrust)
en · crust
Adjective:encrusted
•
Past Simple:encrusted
•
Past Participle:encrusted
•
Present Participle:encrusting
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encrust Lexical Profile

encrust Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To cover or overlay with a hard outer layer, coating, or crust; or to form a hard crust on a surface.

Example

"Over several decades, barnacles and mineral deposits began to encrust the hull of the sunken ship."

2

To decorate or stud a surface richly with jewels, precious stones, or ornamental materials.

Example

"Royal artisans were commissioned to encrust the ceremonial goblet with rubies and sapphires."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for encrust

• Nearby Words

encouragingly
encroach
encroachment
encrust
encrustation
encrypt
encryption

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 17th century from French 'encroûter', or directly from Late Latin 'incrustare' (meaning 'to cover with a crust or rind'), formed from 'in-' ('on, upon') and 'crusta' ('crust, shell, or bark').

Cite this Entry

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