Envelope
ˈɛnvəˌloʊp
Definitions
2 meaningsA flat paper container, typically rectangular, used for enclosing a letter or other item intended for delivery.
ˈɛnvəˌloʊp
A flat paper container for a letter
She carefully folded the letter and placed it inside the envelope.
💡 Simply: It's like a house for your letter! You put the letter inside the envelope to keep it safe during its trip to the person you're writing to. Like if you want to send a birthday card, you'll put it in an envelope.
👶 For kids: A paper pocket for letters!
More Examples
The address was neatly written on the envelope.
He licked the envelope to seal it.
I need to buy more envelopes before I send out the invitations.
How It's Used
"I put the letter into an envelope and sealed it."
"Please write your return address on the envelope."
To wrap or enclose something completely; to surround and cover.
ɪnˈvɛləp
To enclose or surround completely
The fog enveloped the ship, making it invisible.
💡 Simply: To completely cover or surround something, like when fog covers a mountain or when your arms envelope you in a hug.
👶 For kids: To wrap something all the way around!
More Examples
The city was enveloped in a cloud of smoke after the explosion.
The cold air enveloped her as she stepped outside.
The military strategists planned to envelope the enemy forces.
How It's Used
"The enemy forces enveloped the city, cutting off all escape routes."
"The darkness enveloped the small town."
Idioms & expressions
push the envelope
To exceed the normal boundaries; to go beyond the limits.
"The artist's goal was to push the envelope with their new exhibition."
From French 'envelopper' meaning 'to wrap or envelop', derived from 'vol', meaning 'to wrap'.
The term 'envelope' has been used to describe enclosures for documents since the 17th century. Before standardized paper sizes, envelopes were often custom made to fit the documents being sent.
Memory tip
Think of a covering for a letter.
Word Origin
"to wrap; to envelop"