from
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006)
encompassing
adj 1: broad in scope or content; "across-the-board pay
increases"; "an all-embracing definition"; "blanket
sanctions against human-rights violators"; "an invention
with broad applications"; "a panoptic study of Soviet
nationality"- T.G.Winner; "granted him wide powers" [syn:
{across-the-board}, {all-embracing}, {all-encompassing},
{all-inclusive}, {blanket(a)}, {broad}, {encompassing},
{extensive}, {panoptic}, {wide}]
2: closely encircling; "encompassing mountain ranges"; "the
surrounding countryside" [syn: {encompassing(a)},
{surrounding(a)}, {circumferent}]
from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Encompass \En*com"pass\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Encompassed}; p.
pr. & vb. n. {Encompassing}.]
To circumscribe or go round so as to surround closely; to
encircle; to inclose; to environ; as, a ring encompasses the
finger; an army encompasses a city; a voyage encompassing the
world. --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
A question may be encompassed with difficulty. --C. J.
Smith.
[1913 Webster]
The love of all thy sons encompass thee. --Tennyson.
Syn: To encircle; inclose; surround; include; environ;
invest; hem in; shut up.
[1913 Webster]