Intrench Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ก๏ธ
intrench
[ษชnหtrษnสง ]
Definitions
military term
To intrench means to place oneself in a strong defensive position, typically by digging trenches or fortifications. It can also refer to establishing a stronghold that is difficult to penetrate or overcome.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The soldiers intrenched themselves against the advancing enemy.
- During the siege, the troops were intrenched in a fortified position.
- They decided to intrench their defenses before the battle began.
figurative usage
To intrench can also refer to deeply establishing beliefs, practices, or behaviors within a group or society, making them resistant to change or outside influence.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The company's culture was intrenched, making it hard to implement new changes.
- Traditional values can intrench themselves in a community over generations.
- Once a habit is intrenched, it becomes difficult to alter.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often 'intrench' their beliefs when faced with opposing views, making it difficult to change their opinions.
- This concept relates to cognitive biases, where individuals selectively gather information that supports their entrenched views.
- The deeper the emotional connection to a belief, the harder it is for someone to let go, illustrating the mechanism of entrenchment.
Literature
- In literature, characters can become 'intrenched' in their roles or identities, which can drive conflict within a story.
- Authors may explore themes of entrenchment in social or political situations, showing how difficult it is to change established norms.
- The use of 'intrench' helps create tension in narratives, particularly in works dealing with crises or societal issues.
Military History
- Historically, fortifications were built to 'intrench' troops, securing their position during conflicts.
- During World War I, trench warfare exemplified physical entrenchment, with soldiers holding fixed positions amidst warfare.
- The concept of intrenching a position is pivotal in military strategy, as it determines the ability to defend or advance.
Environmental Science
- In ecology, certain species may become 'intrenched' in a habitat, outcompeting others and dominating the ecosystem.
- The idea of 'intrenching' practices can be observed in environmental policies, where established regulations resist change even in the face of new evidence.
- Efforts to intrench sustainability practices illustrate the challenges faced in altering long-standing practices in industries.
Origin of 'intrench'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the French word 'entrencher', meaning to surround or protect.
- The word first appeared in English in the early 18th century, often used in military contexts.
- It combines 'in' and 'trench,' where a trench is a deep ditch, indicating something that is well-placed and protected.
The word 'intrench' dates back to the early 17th century and is derived from the prefix 'in-' meaning 'in' or 'into' and 'trench', which comes from the Old French word 'trencher', meaning to cut or to divide. The military context stems from the necessity of creating defensive positions during warfare, where soldiers would dig trenches to provide cover and stability in battle. Over time, the term also evolved into a metaphorical sense, indicating the establishment of ideas or practices that become so entrenched that they are resistant to change. Its usage has been recorded in literature addressing both physical and figurative concepts, reflecting its dual applicability in both warfare and social dynamics.