Definition

A person or thing that gradually takes over or intrudes on someone else's space, rights, or property.

Example

The encroacher built a fence that extended into my yard.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new encroacher in the neighborhood?

Yeah, I saw the signs going up; it's kind of concerning.

I hope they don’t take over the park space we use.

Exactly! It would be a shame if they kept expanding.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Encroacher → It is formed from "en-" (meaning to cause to be in) and "crocher" (from Old French, meaning to hook or grasp). The word describes someone who causes themselves to be in a place by grasping or taking over land or space that belongs to someone else.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'causing themselves to be in' ('en-') a place by 'grasping' ('crocher') what isn't theirs — that's why an encroacher is someone who intrudes.

Visually Confused Words