ENCROACHMENT, noun The entering gradually on the rights or possessions of another, and taking possession; unlawful intrusion; advance into the territories or jurisdiction of another, by silent means, or without right. 1. That which is taken by encroaching on another. 2. In law, if a tenant owes two shillings rent service to the lord, and the lord takes three, it is an encroachment
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI