envelop

verb

en·​vel·​op in-ˈve-ləp 

en-

enveloped; enveloping; envelops

transitive verb

1

: to enclose or enfold completely with or as if with a covering

2

: to mount an attack on (an enemy's flank)

envelopment

in-ˈve-ləp-mənt 

en-

noun

Synonyms of envelop

• house
• enclose
• surround
• encase
• confine
• include

Examples of envelop in a Sentence

a chronic mistrust of outsiders envelops that neighborhood, cutting it off from the rest of the city

the truth of the presidential assassination is enveloped in a dense fog of myths and conspiracy theories

Recent Examples on the Web

The headphones are designed for music lovers who are seeking a full-bodied and all-enveloping sound in a pair of headphones made with premium craftsmanship. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026

Per fans, the formula yields a younger-looking complexion in mere weeks, and envelops even the most sensitive skin types in soothing hydration. —Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 21 Jan. 2026

Jeffrey Traviss King Neighbors insist that tension, with King at the center, has enveloped the middle-class neighborhood for upwards of eight years. —Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 21 Jan. 2026

These dark neutrals offer the same moody and enveloping feel of black without the outdated look. —Halee Miller Van Ryswyk, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English envolupen, from Anglo-French envoluper, envoleper, from en- + voluper to wrap

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for envelop

• develop
• redevelop

Kids Definition

envelop

verb

en·​vel·​op in-ˈvel-əp 

: to surround and enclose completely with or as if with a covering

envelopment

-mənt 

noun