Encerclée

Encerclée is a French verb meaning "surrounded" or "encircled." It is the past participle of the verb encercler, which comes from the prefix en- (meaning "in" or "into") and the word cercle, meaning "circle." The term is most commonly used in a military context to describe a situation where enemy forces are completely surrounded by opposing troops. This tactical maneuver aims to cut off supplies, prevent escape, and ultimately force the surrender or destruction of the encircled unit. Beyond military applications, "encerclée" can also be used figuratively to describe a person or group feeling trapped or overwhelmed by circumstances, such as being surrounded by debt or facing an insurmountable challenge. The concept of being encircled implies a lack of options and a feeling of confinement. In everyday language, it conveys a sense of being hemmed in.