English Edit

Alternative forms Edit

Etymology Edit

From Middle English encompassen, equivalent to en- +‎ compass.

Pronunciation Edit

  • (UK) IPA(key): /ɪnˈkʌmpəs/, /ənˈkʌmpəs/
  • (US) IPA(key): /ɪnˈkʌmpəs/, /ɪnˈkɑmpəs/, /ɛnˈkʌmpəs/, /ɛnˈkɑmpəs/
  • (file)
  • (file)
  • Hyphenation: en‧com‧pass

Verb Edit

encompass (third-person singular simple present encompasses, present participle encompassing, simple past and past participle encompassed)

  1. (transitive) To form a circle around; to encircle.
  2. (transitive) To include within its scope; to circumscribe or go round so as to surround; to enclose; to contain.
    Synonym: embrace
  3. (transitive) To include completely; to describe fully or comprehensively.
    This book on English grammar encompasses all irregular verbs.
    Synonym: (now rare) comprehend
  4. (transitive) To go around, especially, to circumnavigate.
    Drake encompassed the globe.

Related terms Edit

Translations Edit

References Edit