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

• box (in)
• cage
• closet
• coop (up)
• corral
• encage
• encase
• enclose
• inclose
• fence (in)
• hedge
• hem (in)
• house
• immure
• include
• mew (up)
• pen
• wall (in)

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

Maya says there is a warmth to it, like being enveloped in an elegant cocoon. —Sarah Yang, Sunset Magazine, 9 Aug. 2024

But the classic three-layer cake enveloped in cream cheese frosting is still our readers’ preferred way to enjoy this dessert. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 8 Aug. 2024

According to our testers, the two-inch foam comfort layer that’s right under the cover is more springy than cushiony, helping to prop up the body (rather than enveloping it) and encourage spinal alignment. —Kells McPhillips, SELF, 26 July 2024

These gusts strip away part of the star’s atmosphere, enveloping it in a bubble-like orb of gas and dust. —Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 July 2024

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

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