ə̇n, en+ transitive verb
Etymology: en- (I) + compass, n.
1.
a. : to form a circle about : encircle
with the rising of encompassing mountain ranges the Mojave became a cooped-in desert — American Guide Series: California
b. obsolete : to make a circuit around : go completely around
2.
a. : envelop , enwrap
a thick fog encompassed the building
have encompassed him with every protection — Charles Dickens
b. : to hem or box in : confine
encompassed by hostile natives
c. : to bring within : include , comprehend
in the telling are encompassed … the philosophy, the traditions, and the ritual beauty of that ancient land — Saturday Review
3. obsolete : to get the better of : outwit
4. : to bring to completion, fruition, or perfection : accomplish
a difficult dramatic part few actors can encompass
Synonyms: see surround