entrench

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to establish an attitude, habit, institution, or position so firmly that it is difficult to change

   The policy entrenched existing inequalities instead of correcting them.

2. 2
   verb

   to place troops or oneself in a strongly defended position, especially one protected by trenches

   The defenders entrenched themselves on the ridge before nightfall.

3. 3
   verb

   to infringe or encroach on a right, privilege, or territory

   The new rule may entrench upon powers reserved to local councils.

Formed with en- and trench, ultimately from Old French trenche ("a cut or ditch"). The military sense is to secure a position with trenches; the figurative sense describes ideas, powers, or practices made similarly hard to dislodge.

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