trench
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: trenches · trenching · trenched
Sense 1
A long, narrow ditch or hole in the ground; either manmade, or formed naturally through erosion or tectonic plate movement.
Noun
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
A narrow excavation as used in warfare, as a cover for besieging or emplaced forces.
Noun
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
To invade, especially with regard to the rights or the exclusive authority of another; to encroach.
Verb
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 4
To excavate an elongated pit for protection of soldiers and or equipment, usually perpendicular to the line of sight toward the enemy.
Verb
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “trench” mean?
A long, narrow ditch or hole in the ground; either manmade, or formed naturally through erosion or tectonic plate movement.
Is “trench” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.