Encirclement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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encirclement
[ɪnˈsəːklm(ə)nt ]
Definitions
military strategy
The action of surrounding or enclosing a place or enemy forces, typically for a military purpose.
Synonyms
enclosing, enclosure, surrounding.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| encirclement |
This term is often used in military or strategic situations, where troops or forces are trapped by an enemy.
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| surrounding |
This word is versatile and can be used in various contexts, from describing physical surroundings to abstract conditions.
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| enclosure |
Commonly used when referring to something that is surrounded by a barrier or boundary, often in reference to a physical space.
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| enclosing |
Mostly used to describe the act of putting something inside a boundary or covering, often within a container or area.
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Examples of usage
- The encirclement of the enemy stronghold was a key part of the battle plan.
- The successful encirclement of the city led to the surrender of the opposing forces.
general
The act of forming a circle or ring around something.
Synonyms
enclosing, enclosure, surrounding.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| encirclement |
Commonly used in military or strategic contexts to describe the action of completely surrounding an enemy or object.
|
| enclosing |
Used to describe the action of putting something inside an enclosed space or area, often in a physical or literal sense.
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| surrounding |
Describes something that is all around a particular area; often used in everyday situations to talk about the environment or scenery.
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| enclosure |
Refers to a space that is surrounded by a barrier; can be used in both literal and metaphorical senses.
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Examples of usage
- The encirclement of the campfire by the scouts created a cozy atmosphere.
- The encirclement of the garden with flowers enhanced its beauty.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Military History
- Encirclement has been a key tactic in warfare, designed to cut off enemy supply lines and movement.
- One of the most famous instances was the encirclement of the German 6th Army at Stalingrad during World War II, which led to a significant defeat.
Cultural Symbolism
- Encirclement can symbolize unity and protection in various cultures, such as the circle in Native American rituals representing wholeness.
- In literature, the motif of encirclement often reflects themes of entrapment or inevitability, enhancing the emotional depth.
Psychology
- People may feel a sense of encirclement in social situations, feeling overwhelmed or pressured by the presence of others.
- Encirclement in a psychological context can also denote feelings of being trapped in circumstances, often explored in therapy.
Geography
- Encirclement can also refer to natural landscapes, such as mountains encircling a valley, impacting climate and flora.
- Cities can be encircled by rivers or highways, influencing their growth patterns and urban development.
Origin of 'encirclement'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Latin 'circulare', meaning to make a circle or encircle.
- In English, the term emerged in the late 19th century, initially used in military strategy contexts.
The word 'encirclement' originated from the combination of the prefix 'en-' meaning 'around' and the noun 'circlement', which comes from the verb 'circle'. The concept of encirclement has been used throughout history in military tactics and strategic planning, dating back to ancient times. It plays a crucial role in warfare and siege warfare, where surrounding the enemy forces can lead to their defeat or surrender.