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Encircling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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encircling

[ɪnˈsɜːklɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in geometry

The act of drawing a circle, ellipse, or other shape around another shape, object, or area.

Synonyms

enclosing, encompassing, surrounding.

Examples of usage

  • The encircling of the Earth by the moon's orbit is a fascinating astronomical phenomenon.
  • The encircling of the castle by a high stone wall provided protection against invaders.
Context #2 | Noun

figurative

The act of surrounding or enclosing someone or something, often in a symbolic or metaphorical sense.

Synonyms

encompassing, enveloping, surrounding.

Examples of usage

  • The encircling of the city by protesters was a powerful statement against government corruption.
  • The encircling of the garden with a fence kept the deer from eating the plants.
Context #3 | Verb

literal

To form a circle, loop, or ring around someone or something.

Synonyms

enclose, envelop, surround.

Examples of usage

  • The dancers encircled the bonfire, holding hands and moving in a rhythmic pattern.
  • The police encircled the building to prevent anyone from escaping.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Encircling can relate to feelings of safety or security, as being surrounded often makes one feel protected.
  • In social interactions, encircling can refer to how groups form around individuals, impacting dynamics and emotional support.
  • The concept of 'circle of friends' ties into the idea of supportive relationships encircling an individual.

Geography

  • Many ancient cultures built circular cities, where the layout symbolizes unity and protection.
  • Mountain ranges often encircle valleys, creating natural boundaries that affect climate and habitation.
  • The encircling aspect of rivers has been critical in shaping civilizations and agricultural practices, providing fertile land.

Literature

  • In literature, encircling motifs often symbolize the theme of protection, highlighting characters' relationships.
  • Characters in stories sometimes find themselves physically encircled by dangers, symbolizing emotional or psychological traps.
  • The encircling of the protagonist's journey can reflect their development, suggesting growth through challenges faced.

Art

  • In visual arts, encircling shapes like circles or spirals can signify completeness or infinity.
  • Artists often use encircling lines to draw attention to the center focus of a piece, guiding viewer's eyes.
  • Many cultural artworks depict encircled figures or elements to convey unity, connection, or celebration.

Origin of 'encircling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French term 'encercle', which means 'to surround or encircle'.
  • In Latin, 'circulus' means 'circle', showing the connection between shapes and surrounding someone or something.
  • First recorded usage in English was in the late 16th century, often used in poetic contexts to create imagery of surrounding.

The word 'encircling' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'en-' meaning 'in' or 'around' and the word 'circle'. It dates back to the late 16th century and has been used in various contexts to describe the act of forming a circle or surrounding someone or something.

See also: circlets, circularity, encircle.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,727, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.