encroach

[en-krohch]

verb (used without object)

1. to advance beyond proper, established, or usual limits; make gradual inroads.

   A dictatorship of the majority is encroaching on the rights of the individual.

2. to trespass upon the property, domain, or rights of another, especially stealthily or by gradual advances.

encroach

/ ɪnˈkrəʊtʃ /

verb

1. to intrude gradually, stealthily, or insidiously upon the rights, property, etc, of another

2. to advance beyond the usual or proper limits

Other Word Forms

• encroacher noun
• encroachment noun
• encroachingly adverb
• unencroached adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of encroach¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English encrochen, from Anglo-French encrocher, Old French encrochier “to catch hold of, seize,” equivalent to en- en- ¹ + -crochier, verbal derivative of croc “hook,” from Germanic; crooked, crook ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of encroach¹

C14: from Old French encrochier to seize, literally: fasten upon with hooks, from _en- ¹ + croc hook, of Germanic origin; see _crook

Synonym Study

See trespass.

Example Sentences

Currently, travelers who “encroach upon neighboring seats” are encouraged to purchase an extra seat in advance of the flight to ensure it will be available.

From Los Angeles Times

As the Russian faced match point at 5-4 in the third set, a photographer encroached the playing surface between Bonzi's first and second serves.

From BBC

I’m the one who’s encroaching, he tells me, and I should go to the county offices and check the property records.

From Los Angeles Times

Locally the move has generally been welcomed amid growing concerns that foreigners, including Chinese nationals, have been encroaching on smaller trades.

From BBC

Children’s programming has been a growth area for Netflix as it encroaches on the traditional broadcasters’ turf.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• horn in 
• impinge 
• infringe 
• intrude 
• trespass 
• usurp