Definitions

1. noun

an event or situation in which two or more people or things come into contact with each other, often with the result of a challenge or conflict

“The two hikers had a close encounter with a wild bear in the forest.”

2. verb

to meet or come into contact with something or someone, especially in a surprising or unexpected way

“She encountered a lot of resistance when trying to implement the new policy.”

3. noun

a military force or a group of people that is sent to meet or fight an enemy

“The army sent a team to encounter the rebel forces in the city.”