plural umbrellas
1
: a device that is used for protection from the rain and sun
Note: An umbrella consists of a circle of fabric attached to a folding frame that is connected to a central pole or handle.
2
: a group or organization that includes many smaller groups
—often used before another noun
an umbrella corporation
3
: something that includes several or many different things
The store sells Indian, Asian, and Middle Eastern foods under the umbrella of international cuisine.
—often used before another nounI used the heading "Odds and Ends" as an umbrella term for items that did not fit anywhere else.
I bought an umbrella policy that insures my car, jewelry, and house.
Cite this Entry
“Umbrella.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/umbrella. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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