Encompass

Definition

Encompass means to include comprehensively or to surround and have within. It is often used to describe something that covers or contains a wide range or extent.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkʌmpəs/
• Respelling: in-KUM-puhs

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkʌmpəs/
• Respelling: in-KUM-puhs

The pronunciation of "encompass" is consistent in both American and British English, with emphasis on the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "encompass" originates from the Middle English word "encompassen," which is derived from "en-" meaning "in" or "within" and "compassen," meaning "to encompass" or "to encircle." The term has evolved to describe the act of including or surrounding something comprehensively.

Derivatives

• Encompassment (noun)
• Encompassed (verb)
• Encompassing (verb)
• Comprehensive (adjective, related)
• Encircle (verb, related)

Synonyms

• Include
• Surround
• Encircle

Antonyms

• Exclude
• Omit
• Release

Usage

The word "encompass" is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe the act of including or covering a broad range of elements or the act of surrounding something completely. It is often used in academic, technical, and everyday language.

Related Terms

• Incorporate: To include something as part of a whole.
• Surround: To be all around something or someone.
• Comprehend: To understand or grasp the meaning of something.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To include comprehensively: Refers to the act of including a wide range or variety of elements within something.
  • Example: "The course will encompass various aspects of modern literature."
• To surround and have within: Describes the action of encircling or surrounding something entirely.
  • Example: "The mountains encompass the valley, creating a natural barrier."