Literally, a meeting of two bodies. Hence,

A meeting in opposition or contest. The jostling chiefs in rude rencounter join.

A casual combat; a sudden contest or fight without premeditation; as between individuals or small parties.

A casual action; an engagement between armies or fleets. The confederates should - outnumber the enemy in all rencounters and engagements.

Any combat, action or engagement.

To meet unexpectedly without enmity or hostility.

To attack hand to hand.

To meet an enemy unexpectedly .

To clash; to come in collision.

To skirmish with another.

To fight hand to hand.