v.
Pronunciation: in- ' kr ō ch, en-
Function: intransitive verb
Etymology: Middle English encrochen to get, seize, from Anglo-French encrocher, from en- + croc, croche hook ― more at CROCHET
Date: 1528
1 : to enter by gradual steps or by stealth into the possessions or rights of another
2 : to advance beyond the usual or proper limits <the gradually encroach ing sea>
synonyms see TRESPASS
– en · croach · er noun
– en · croach · ment \ - ' kr ō ch-m ə nt \ noun