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You might think of a sconce (the word that when combined with the prefix en- forms ensconce) as a type of candleholder or lamp, but the word can also refer to a defensive fortification, usually one made of earth. Originally, then, a person who was ensconced was enclosed in or concealed by such a structure, out of harm's way. One of the earliest writers to apply the verb ensconce with the general sense of "hide" was William Shakespeare. In The Merry Wives of Windsor the character Falstaff, hoping to avoid detection when he is surprised during an amorous moment with Mrs. Ford, says "She shall not see me; I will ensconce me behind the arras."
Examples of ensconce in a Sentence
Sara Holdren, Vulture, 14 Nov. 2025
At the center of her opera-house set, two layers of curtains part, revealing that glorious, preposterous, Clifford-size crinoline and the tiny woman ensconced within it.
—Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, 13 Nov. 2025
But the good news is, there is one hero accessory that can always instantly elevate your outfit, even when dressing for the most frigid of mornings, your top halve ensconced in wools and chunky knits.
—Christian Allaire, Vogue, 12 Nov. 2025
When a House seat in the Sierra foothills opened up in the 2008 election cycle, McClintock shifted north, successfully running for office there, and has been ensconced in California’s northeastern and central realms ever since.
—David Mark, The Washington Examiner, 7 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for ensconce
Cite this Entry
“Ensconce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ensconce. Accessed 23 Nov. 2025.
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ensconce
verb
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