\Ren*coun"ter\ (r?n-koun"t?r), v. t. [imp. & p. p.
{Rencountered} (-t?rd); p. pr. & vb/ n. {Rencountering}.] [F.
rencontrer; pref. re- + OF. encontrer to encounter. See
{Encounter}.]
1. To meet unexpectedly; to encounter.
2. To attack hand to hand. [Obs.] --Spenser.

\Ren*coun"ter\, v. i.
To meet unexpectedly; to encounter in a hostile manner; to
come in collision; to skirmish.

\Ren*coun"ter\, n. [F. rencontre, from renconter to
meet.]
1. A meeting of two persons or bodies; a collision;
   especially, a meeting in opposition or contest; a combat,
   action, or engagement.
         The justling chiefs in rude rencounter join.
                                               --Granville.
2. A causal combat or action; a sudden contest or fight
   without premeditation, as between individuals or small
   parties.
         The confederates should . . . outnumber the enemy in
         all rencounters and engagements.      --Addison.
Syn: Combat; fight; conflict; collision; clash.