encounter

views updated

en·coun·ter / enˈkoun(t)ər/ • v. [tr.] unexpectedly experience or be faced with (something difficult or hostile): we have encountered one small problem. ∎  meet unexpectedly and confront (an adversary): the soldiers encountered a crowd of demonstrators. ∎  meet (someone) unexpectedly.• n. an unexpected or casual meeting with someone or something. ∎  a confrontation or unpleasant struggle: his close encounter with death.

More From encyclopedia.com