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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
Charlie Hobbs, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 Feb. 2026
The villas are ensconced in hilly areas, with beautiful Caribbean views (shuttles are available to transport guests throughout the resort).
—Nneka M. Okona, Travel + Leisure, 15 Feb. 2026
Only a nerd takes pleasure in responsibility, and we are firmly ensconced in an anti-nerd epoch.
—Hillary Busis, Vanity Fair, 13 Feb. 2026
The company often casts New York City performers in its shows, but Bolding recently moved from the city to West Hartford and was ensconced in another aspect of TheaterWorks’ business.
—Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 8 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ensconce
Cite this Entry
“Ensconce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ensconce. Accessed 19 Feb. 2026.
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ensconce
verb
