Meaning & Definition of word "Encroach"

Encroach

in-'krohch

1. To intrude on a person's territory, rights, or schedule.
- Example: The construction of the new shopping center began to encroach on the quiet neighborhood.
2. To advance gradually beyond usual or acceptable limits.
- Example: The use of technology in monitoring employees has begun to encroach upon their privacy.
3. To take another's possessions or rights, usually by gradually invading or violating.
- Example: Wild animals are starting to encroach on agricultural lands as their natural habitat shrinks.

Middle English encrochen, from Old French encroeir, from en- + croistre to grow.

encroach on:

to intrude upon someone's area or rights

encroaching behavior:

actions that invade someone else's space or rights

encroach into:

to gradually affect or intrude into something

trespass:

to enter someone's land or property without permission

intrusion:

the act of intruding or invading without permission

infringe:

to actively break the terms of a law or agreement

Meaning: to step on someone's toes

Example Sentence: Don't encroach on my territory when I'm working.

Meaning: to overstep boundaries

Example Sentence: He's starting to encroach with all his unsolicited advice.