Encapsulate: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in a technical or formal context, such as in programming, science, or medicine, to describe the act of enclosing something to separate it from its surroundings.

• The software module is designed to encapsulate data, protecting it from external changes
• The medication is encapsulated in a gel capsule for easier swallowing

Used when the primary goal is to keep something safe from harm, damage, or loss. This term is quite general and can be applied in various contexts.

• Wear sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays
• The organization aims to protect endangered species from extinction

Suitable for everyday use, when referring to putting something inside a boundary or container, often in a physical sense.

• Please enclose the check in the envelope before mailing it
• The farmer decided to enclose the field with a fence to keep the animals in

Best used when there is an implication of defense or guarding against something. This can often involve active measures to prevent harm.

• He raised his arm to shield his eyes from the bright light
• The vaccine helps shield the population from disease outbreaks

Used when you need to summarize or wrap up something in a concise way.

• She was able to encapsulate the entire meeting in a few sentences.
• This essay encapsulates the main ideas of the book.

Appropriate when referring to something being surrounded, often physically, by something else.

• Please enclose the documents in this envelope.
• The garden is enclosed by a high wall.

Refers to something being all around someone or something.

• The house is surrounded by trees.
• She loves to surround herself with positive people.

Used when referring to separating something completely from others, often to prevent interaction, which can have a negative connotation.

• Scientists had to isolate the virus to study it.
• He felt isolated after moving to a new city.

When you want to express the idea of enclosing something in a concise and compact form, especially in a technical or scientific context.

• The cell membrane encapsulates the cell's contents.
• The summary encapsulates the main points of the report.

When you want to describe something that surrounds or envelops another object, typically used in a physical or metaphorical sense.

• The fog enveloped the city.
• The letter was placed in a white envelope.

When you want to talk about something that lies over the surface of another thing, often for protection or concealment.

• The snow is covering the ground.
• They put a covering over the furniture to protect it during the move.

When you want to describe a close-fitting cover or case, often used for protective purposes, and commonly refers to objects like knives or wires.

• He pulled the knife from its sheath.
• The cable is protected by a plastic sheath.