Emily Dickinson Lexicon

REN-COUN'TER, n. [Fr. rencontre; re and encontre; en and contre, against.]

1. Literally, a meeting of two bodies. Hence,]
2. A meeting in opposition or contest. The jostling chiefs in rude rencounter join. – Glanville.
3. A casual combat; a sudden contest or fight without premeditation; as between individuals or small parties.
4. A casual action; an engagement between armies or fleets. The confederates should … outnumber the enemy in all rencounters and engagements. Addison.
5. Any combat, action or engagement.