Surround: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something or someone is all around another thing or person, typically in a neutral or descriptive manner.

• The house is surrounded by trees
• The police surrounded the building

Implies a complete circle around something and can be slightly more formal. Often used in strategic or military contexts.

• The army encircled the enemy
• A fence encircled the garden

Refers to putting something inside a boundary or container, confining it on all sides.

• The garden was enclosed by a high wall
• Please enclose the documents with your application

Indicates something completely and often gently covering or hiding another thing. Can imply warmth or comfort.

• Darkness enveloped the city
• The fog enveloped the landscape

This word is often used to describe something that is around or encircling a specific object or person. It could be physical or abstract.

• The house is surrounded by tall trees
• She felt surrounded by love and support

This term is used to describe the conditions, including natural, social, and cultural factors, that influence the life of an individual or community.

• The factory's emissions are harmful to the environment
• He thrives in a stimulating work environment

This term describes the things and conditions around a person or place. It's more general and can refer to both immediate and broader aspects of an area.

• We need to be aware of our surroundings when walking at night
• The hotel had beautiful surroundings with gardens and mountains

This word refers to the place or context where something is situated or takes place, often used in literature and film to describe the backdrop or context of a story.

• The novel is set in a medieval setting
• Our picnic had a picturesque setting by the river