envelop

verb

en·​vel·​op in-ˈve-ləp How to pronounce envelop (audio)
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 noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The sunlit sanctuary’s posh amenities include a rooftop garden enveloped in greenery with open views over the city. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 7 Mar. 2025 The body is barely cold before they’re enveloped in a world of drugs and murder, with the FBI circling ever nearer to what looks like a criminal jackpot (fronted by a deli, hence the title). Proma Khosla, IndieWire, 6 Mar. 2025 There is a strong focus on the idea of protection and intimacy—garments that envelop the body while also revealing glimpses of skin, creating a play of contrasts and subtle allure. Felicity Carter, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 Plus, from the ’90s, came a striking over-the-knee boot in suede, enveloping the leg like a second skin. Stephen Garner, WWD, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for envelop

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of envelop was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Envelop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/envelop. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

envelop

verb
en·​vel·​op in-ˈvel-əp How to pronounce envelop (audio)
: to surround and enclose completely with or as if with a covering
envelopment noun

More from Merriam-Webster on envelop

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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