entrench
UK: ɪnˈtrɛntʃ | US: ɪnˈtrɛntʃ
vt. to establish firmly or solidly (often in a defensive context)
vt. to dig or construct trenches for protection
vi. to encroach or trespass (archaic)
The word "entrench" combines the prefix "en-" (from Old French "en-," meaning "in" or "into") with "trench" (from Old French "trenche," meaning "ditch" or "cut"). Originally, it referred to digging defensive ditches in warfare. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to mean establishing something so firmly that it becomes difficult to remove, much like a well-dug trench.
The soldiers worked overnight to entrench themselves before the enemy attack.
The new policy will entrench inequality if not revised.
The company’s dominance in the market is deeply entrenched.
Critics argue that the law entrenches bureaucratic inefficiency.
Ancient castles often had entrenched walls to withstand sieges.