encircle
UK: ɪnˈsɜːkl | US: ɪnˈsɜːrkl
vt. to form a circle around; surround
vt. to move or extend in a circular path around something
The word "encircle" combines the prefix "en-" (from Old French/Latin, meaning "to cause to be" or "put into") with the root "circle" (from Latin "circulus," meaning "ring" or "circular path"). The prefix "en-" transforms the noun "circle" into a verb, giving the sense of "making something surrounded by a circle." This construction reflects a common pattern in English where Latin-derived prefixes dynamically alter root meanings.
The soldiers encircled the village to prevent escape.
A ring of mountains encircles the valley.
She used a ribbon to encircle the gift box.
The detective noticed the suspect was encircled by bodyguards.
Ancient walls still encircle the old part of the city.