encirclement

noun

en·​cir·​cle·​ment "mənt 

plural -s

: the act or action of encircling, surrounding, or encompassing

the encirclement of the globe by an airplane

the encirclement of a wound by scar tissue

specifically : the policy of one or more countries of gradually enveloping or isolating another country

ridden by the nightmare of encirclement

—Yale Review

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now