entrench

[en-trench] /ɛnˈtrɛntʃ/
verb (used with object)
1.
to place in a position of strength; establish firmly or solidly:
safely entrenched behind undeniable facts.
2.
to dig trenches for defensive purposes around (oneself, a military position, etc.).
verb (used without object)
3.
to encroach; trespass; infringe (usually followed by on or upon):
to entrench on the domain or rights of another.
Also, intrench.
Origin
1545-55; en-1 + trench
Related forms
reentrench, verb
unentrenched, adjective
Synonyms
1. settle, ensconce, set, implant, embed.
Examples from the web for entrench
  • The other option, which sadly also exists, is that lawmakers will entrench the status quo under the guise of reform.
  • Successful politicians surmount party allegiances, rather than entrench them.
  • Instead of discouraging corporate shareholding, the government plans to entrench it.
  • Extending the general's term will entrench his position.
  • Too many restrictions on the paid-for services may entrench file-sharing.
  • All that can do is further entrench and polarise the existing positions.
  • In some quarters democracy will begin to entrench itself.
  • Thus, higher energy prices tend to entrench stagflation in the economy.
  • In addition, failure to stake and entrench the straw bale has allowed undercutting and end flow.
  • Dismantle and alter the systems that reinforce and entrench poverty housing.
British Dictionary definitions for entrench

entrench

/ɪnˈtrɛntʃ/
verb
1.
(transitive) to construct (a defensive position) by digging trenches around it
2.
(transitive) to fix or establish firmly, esp so as to prevent removal or change
3.
(intransitive; foll by on or upon) to trespass or encroach; infringe
Derived Forms
entrenched, intrenched, adjective
entrencher, intrencher, noun
Word Origin and History for entrench
v.

1550s, implied in intrenched, from en- (1) "make, put in" + trench. Figurative use is from 1590s. Related: Entrenched; entrenching.