— encompassment , n.
/en kum"peuhs/ , v.t.
1. to form a circle about; encircle; surround: He built a moat to encompass the castle.
2. to enclose; envelop: The folds of a great cloak encompassed her person.
3. to include comprehensively: a work that encompasses the entire range of the world's religious beliefs.
4. Obs. to outwit.
[ 1545-55; EN- 1 + COMPASS ]