I. ə̇nˈkrōch, en- intransitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-es )
Etymology: Middle English encrochen to get, seize, from Middle French encrochier to seize, hang up, set aloft, from Old French, from en- en- (I) + croc hook, of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse krōkr hook — more at crook
1. : to enter by gradual steps or by stealth into the possessions or rights of another : trespass , intrude — usually used with on or upon
encroach on the territory of a neighboring country
2. : to advance beyond desirable or normal limits : take undue liberties — usually used with on or upon
a governor encroaching upon the liberties of his people
Synonyms: see trespass
II. noun
( -es )
: encroachment
the encroach of fungi into crevices