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.
Known for a deep, authoritarian bass voice that could have been used to voice movie trailers — and for his constant companion, his walking stick — Davis’ tenure encompassed an evolution of Chicago politics over nearly a half century in public life. Rick Pearson, Chicago Tribune, 31 July 2025 Rubin had been touring with Nine Inch Nails since 2009, a tenure that encompassed the band’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2020, in which he was included. Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 31 July 2025 About Penske Entertainment Penske Entertainment is a leading provider of world-class sports and entertainment, encompassing IndyCar and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Bruce Martin, Forbes.com, 31 July 2025 Here are Michigan's National Park Service sites: Isle Royale National Park encompasses all of Isle Royale in Lake Superior. Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 30 July 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Encompass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/encompass. Accessed 3 Aug. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!