释义 |
en·croach I. \ə̇nˈkrōch, en-\ intransitive verb (-ed/-ing/-es) Etymology: Middle English encrochen to get, seize, from Middle French encrochier to seize, hang up, set aloft, from Old French, from en- en- (I) + croc hook, of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse krōkr hook — more at crook 1. : to enter by gradual steps or by stealth into the possessions or rights of another : trespass, intrude — usually used with on or upon < encroach on the territory of a neighboring country > 2. : to advance beyond desirable or normal limits : take undue liberties — usually used with on or upon < a governor encroaching upon the liberties of his people > Synonyms: see trespass II. noun (-es) : encroachment < the encroach of fungi into crevices > |