encompass

verb

en·​com·​pass in-ˈkəm-pəs How to pronounce encompass (audio)
en-,
 also  -ˈkäm-
encompassed; encompassing; encompasses

transitive verb

1
a
: include, comprehend
a plan that encompasses a number of aims
b
2
a
: to form a circle about : enclose
b
obsolete : to go completely around
3
: bring about, accomplish
encompass a task
encompassment
in-ˈkəm-pə-smənt How to pronounce encompass (audio)
en-
 also  -ˈkäm-
noun

Examples of encompass in a Sentence

The district encompasses most of the downtown area. a neighborhood encompassed by a highway
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The investigation encompasses Tesla vehicles equipped with the Full Self-Driving driver assistance system, including 2016-2025 Model S and Model X, 2017-2025 Model 3, and 2020-2025 Model Y models. Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 8 Jan. 2025 The Outer Continental Shelf encompasses the coastal waters of the U.S. and its territories — broadly covering areas up to 200 nautical miles from land, according to the Department of the Interior. Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 7 Jan. 2025 Since the late 2010s, the United States and many other advanced countries have become increasingly involved in the race for leadership in quantum information science and technology, a field that encompasses quantum computing, quantum communications, and quantum sensing. Charina Chou, Foreign Affairs, 7 Jan. 2025 All five films have been Oscar shortlisted in the sound category, which since 2021 has encompassed both sound editing and mixing. Brande Victorian, The Hollywood Reporter, 7 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for encompass 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Time Traveler
The first known use of encompass was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near encompass

Cite this Entry

“Encompass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/encompass. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

encompass

verb
en·​com·​pass in-ˈkəm-pəs How to pronounce encompass (audio)
-ˈkäm-
1
: to form a circle about : surround
2
a
: to cover or surround especially so as to hide or protect
b
: to take in as a part : include
encompassment noun

More from Merriam-Webster on encompass

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