envelop

UK: ɪnˈveləp | US: ɪnˈveləp

Definition

  1. vt. to wrap or cover something completely

  2. vt. to surround or conceal something

  3. n. (less common) a covering or wrapper

Structure
en <in, into>velop <wrap>en <in, into>velop <wrap>
Etymology

The word "envelop" traces back to the Old French envoluper, meaning "to wrap up." It combines the prefix en- (indicating inward action) with velop, related to the Latin volvere (to roll). The imagery of rolling or folding something inward persists in its modern meaning of wrapping or surrounding completely.

Examples

  1. Fog began to envelop the entire valley.

  2. She used a scarf to envelop her face from the cold wind.

  3. The artist chose to envelop the sculpture in a sheer fabric.

  4. Darkness enveloped the room as the power went out.

  5. The spy tried to envelop the documents in a waterproof pouch.