environ
UK: ɪnˈvaɪərən | US: ɪnˈvaɪrən
vt. to surround or encircle (archaic/literary)
n. (plural) surroundings; environment (obsolete)
The word "environ" originates from Old French "environer," meaning "to surround," which combines "en-" (a prefix indicating "in" or "around") and "viron" (meaning "circle" or "circuit"). Over time, "environ" evolved into the modern English "environment," retaining the core idea of encircling or surrounding. The archaic verb form "environ" reflects its original usage, while the noun form (now obsolete) referred to one's surroundings.
The castle was environed by a deep moat.
In medieval times, towns were often environed with protective walls.
The poet described the environing hills as guardians of the valley.
The forest environed the village, isolating it from the outside world.
His thoughts were environed by a sense of melancholy.