encroach

Definition of encroachnext
as in to invade
to advance gradually beyond the usual or desirable limits each year the sea continues to encroach upon the island's beaches

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How does the verb encroach differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of encroach are infringe, invade, and trespass. While all these words mean "to make inroads upon the property, territory, or rights of another," encroach suggests gradual or stealthy entrance upon another's territory or usurpation of another's rights or possessions.

the encroaching settlers displacing the native peoples

Where would infringe be a reasonable alternative to encroach?

The words infringe and encroach are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, infringe implies an encroachment clearly violating a right or prerogative.

infringing a copyright

When can invade be used instead of encroach?

The words invade and encroach can be used in similar contexts, but invade implies a hostile and injurious entry into the territory or sphere of another.

accused of invading their privacy

When could trespass be used to replace encroach?

While the synonyms trespass and encroach are close in meaning, trespass implies an unwarranted or unlawful intrusion.

hunters trespassing on farmland

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of encroach Not even underage performers are safe from the encroaching tech. Victor Tangermann, Futurism, 25 June 2026 The beach is regularly groomed, cleaned, and kept clear of encroaching vegetation, resulting in a pristine white-sand beach that’s unmatched anywhere else in the state. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 24 June 2026 This revival finds new power in the intimate story of a family learning to love again set against one of the most consequential moments of the twentieth century, as the Nazi regime rises to power and authoritarianism encroaches on daily life. Greg Evans, Deadline, 23 June 2026 State media didn’t elaborate on what Kim meant, but some analysts say North Korea may be preparing to formally declare a maritime boundary that could encroach on waters controlled by rival South Korea. ABC News, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for encroach
Recent Examples of Synonyms for encroach
Verb
  • The invading army of World Cup tourists love our hospitality, barbeque, ranch dressing, bars, superstores, fast food and our all-around coolness.
    Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 28 June 2026
  • Upon their return, most ended up in countries that were invaded and subdued by the German army.
    Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 June 2026
Verb
  • Leaders should identify where bottlenecks crept back in, restore psychological safety around small failures, and rebuild the feedback loops that make frequent, low-risk deployment feel sustainable.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
  • Asked Monday what the best part about being back has been so far, a big smile crept across Watkins’ face.
    Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026
Verb
  • Food trucks reopened after the storm and long lines snaked around the vendor area.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 4 July 2026
  • The New River, which snakes through West Virginia, Virginia, and North Carolina, may be one of the oldest river systems on earth.
    Josh Laskin, Travel + Leisure, 3 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Encroach.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/encroach. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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