encircling
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪnˈsɜːrklɪŋ/
KK: /ɪnˈsɜrklɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Surrounding or enclosing something completely.
Example
The encircling walls of the castle provided protection from invaders.
Conversation
Did you see the park with the encircling path around the lake?
Yes, it looks so peaceful and inviting!
I love how the trees create that encircling atmosphere.
Absolutely! It feels like a little escape from the city.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
surrounding
enclosing
ringing
Antonyms
isolating
separating
dividing
verb
Definition
To form a circle around something or to surround it completely.
Example
The soldiers were encircling the enemy's position to cut off their escape.
Tense Forms
Past: encircled
Past Participle: encircled
Conversation
Did you see the way the kids were encircling the playground equipment?
Yeah, they looked like they were having so much fun!
It reminded me of how we used to play there when we were younger.
Root Explanation
Encircling → It is formed from "en-" (meaning to cause to be in) and "circl-" (from Latin "circulus", meaning circle) and "-ing" (a suffix indicating the action or process). The word "encircling" means the action of causing something to be in a circle or surrounding it.
Memory Tip
Think of causing something to be 'in' a 'circle' — that's why encircling means surrounding something.
Visually Confused Words
circling
penciling
pencilling