In-trĕnch'ment, n.

n. 1. The act of intrenching. 2. (Mil.) A trench or ditch dug out for a defense against an enemy; also, the earth thrown up in making such a ditch; and, hence, a slight fortification or field-work. On our side, we have thrown up intrenchments on Winter and Prospect Hills. Washington.

3. Any defense or protection.
4. An encroachment on the rights of another. “The slightest intrenchment upon individual freedom.” Southey.