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Engulf - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Engulf means to completely surround or cover something, often suddenly or forcefully. It can describe physical things like flames engulfing a building or emotions overwhelming a person.

engulf

/ɪnˈɡʌlf/ /ɪnˈɡʌlf/

Definition:

To completely surround or cover something, often suddenly or forcefully.

Synonyms:

overwhelm, swallow, immerse, envelop

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

release, free

Common Collocations:

engulf in flames, engulf by darkness, engulf with emotion

Derivatives:

engulfment, engulfing

Usage Tips:

Use "engulf" to describe something being completely covered or overwhelmed, often by a force like fire or water.

Common Phrases:

engulfed in flames, engulfed by sorrow, engulfed in darkness

Etymology:

From Old French "engolfer," meaning "to swallow up," from Latin "in-" (into) + "gula" (throat).

Examples:

  • 1. The flames quickly engulf the wooden house.
  • 2. Darkness began to engulf the room as the sun set.
  • 3. She felt sadness engulf her after hearing the news.
  • 4. The tidal wave threatened to engulf the small village.

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