围堵 (wéi dǔ) is a compound verb meaning 'to surround and block' — literally combining 围 (wéi), 'to surround', and 堵 (dǔ), 'to block or obstruct'. Together, they describe coordinated action where people or forces encircle a target from multiple sides while simultaneously cutting off its movement or escape routes. This word emphasizes both spatial containment and functional restriction.

It’s commonly used in contexts involving crowd control, wildlife management, law enforcement operations, or even metaphorical situations like containing misinformation. While it can appear in news reports about protests or animal rescues, it carries a formal, slightly forceful tone and is rarely used in casual daily speech. The term often implies intentionality, planning, and authority — for example, rangers might 围堵 a dangerous wild animal to prevent harm to villagers.