encounter
UK[ɪnˈkaʊntə(r)]US[ɪnˈkaʊntər]
v
To meet or experience something, especially something unpleasant or unexpected
n
An occasion when you meet or experience something, especially something unpleasant or unexpected
Morpheme Breakdown
en
counter
en
in, into
counter
against
Etymology
The word "encounter" entered English in the 14th century via Anglo-French encontrer, meaning "to meet as an adversary" or "to confront". Its ultimate source is the Vulgar Latin incontra, a combination of the Latin prefix in- ("in") and the preposition/adverb contra ("against"). This literal sense of "coming up against" someone or something, often in a hostile or adversarial context, is preserved in its modern military and conflict-related uses. Over time, the meaning broadened to include any unexpected or chance meeting, whether confrontational or not, and further extended to the experience of facing difficulties or problems.
Analysis
Structure: en (in, into) + counter (against)
en: A prefix of Latin origin (via French), from Latin in- meaning "in, into". Its functional role is to indicate a state of being brought into a situation.
counter: A root of Latin origin, from Latin contra meaning "against". Its functional role is to denote opposition or confrontation.
Examples
We encountered a serious problem during the software installation.
His first encounter with classical music left a lasting impression.
The explorers did not expect to encounter such harsh weather conditions.