# encircle

/ɛnˈsɝkəɫ/ (US) · /ɛnsˈɜːkəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/encircle
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

to go around something and make a circle around it, closing it in on all sides.

For teachers: to surround or form a closed ring around something, enclosing it on all sides.

## Examples

- Tall trees encircle the small lake.
- Police officers encircle the square to keep the crowd away from the stage.
- Ancient walls still encircle the old town, marking where merchants once passed through guarded gates at dawn.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.

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