rencounter Meaning, Definition & Usage

Ren*coun"ter transitive verb
Etymology
F. rencontrer; pref. re- + OF. encontrer to encounter. See Encounter.
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Rencountered present participle & verbal noun Rencountering
Definitions
  1. To meet unexpectedly; to encounter.
  2. To attack hand to hand. Obs. Spenser.
Ren*coun"ter intransitive verb
Definitions
  1. To meet unexpectedly; to encounter in a hostile manner; to come in collision; to skirmish.
Ren*coun"ter noun
Etymology
F. rencontre, from renconter to meet.
Definitions
  1. A meeting of two persons or bodies; a collision; especially, a meetingg in opposition or contest; a combat, action, or engagement.
    The justling chiefs in rude rencounter join. Granville.
  2. A causal combat or action; a sudden contest or fight without premeditation, as between individuals or small parties.
    The confederates should . . . outnumber the enemy in all rencounters and engagements. Addison.

Webster 1913