1. A naturally enclosed space; SYN. natural enclosure.
2. A space that has been enclosed for some purpose.
3. Something (usually a supporting document) that is enclosed in an envelope with a covering letter; SYN. inclosure.
4. The act of enclosing something inside something else; SYN. enclosing, envelopment, enveloping, inclosure.
In Britain, appropriation of common land as private property, or the changing of open-field systems to enclosed fields (often used for sheep). This process began in the 14th century and became widespread in the 15th and 16th centuries. It caused poverty, homelessness, and rural depopulation, and resulted in revolts 1536, 1569, and 1607.