ENTRENCH

v. (also intrench) 1 tr. establish firmly (in a defensible position, in office, etc.). 2 tr. surround (a post, army, town, etc.) with a trench as a fortification. 3 tr. apply extra safeguards to (rights etc. guaranteed by legislation). 4 intr. entrench oneself. 5 intr. (foll. by upon) encroach, trespass. entrench oneself adopt a well-defended position. entrenchment n.