Enfolding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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enfolding
[ɪnˈfoʊldɪŋ ]
Definition
action, wrapping
To enfold means to surround or envelop something completely. It can indicate the action of enclosing, embracing, or covering something within another layer or space, creating a sense of protection or inclusion.
Synonyms
contain, embrace, envelop, surround, wrap.
Examples of usage
- She enfolded the baby in a warm blanket.
- The hills enfold the valley in a serene embrace.
- He felt the love of his family enfolding him during tough times.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Famous poets like Robert Frost often use the idea of enfolding in nature imagery to evoke feelings of warmth and safety.
- In literature, enfolding can symbolize protection, as seen in themes where characters seek refuge from chaotic worlds.
- Novels often use enfolding narratives, where a story wraps around another, creating layers of meaning.
Psychology
- The concept of enfolding can be linked to emotional security, as humans often seek environments that provide a sense of protection and warmth.
- In family studies, enfolding behaviors among caregivers can influence a child's sense of safety and attachment.
- Therapeutic techniques sometimes use the idea of enfolding to describe how individuals can wrap themselves in supportive thoughts during difficult times.
Art
- In visual arts, enfolding can be seen in compositions where elements overlap, suggesting intimacy and interconnectedness.
- Artists have used the visual metaphor of enfolding to portray relationships, with shapes encircling or cradling one another.
- The technique of layering in painting often symbolizes enfolding, creating depth and a sense of enveloping space.
Nature
- In nature, enfolding refers to how plants and animals protect their young, like how a bird enfolds its chicks under its wings.
- Environmental studies highlight the concept of enfolding in ecosystems, where organisms wrap around each other in symbiotic relationships.
- The idea can also be seen in the way leaves enfold buds, symbolizing the cycle of growth and protection.
Origin of 'enfolding'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'enfolding' comes from the Middle English word 'enfolden,' which means to wrap up or envelop.
- It has roots in Old English, combining 'en-' (in) with 'fold,' meaning to bend or double over.
- The concept has been used in various forms of literature to describe a physical or emotional embrace.
The term 'enfold' originates from the Middle English word 'enfolden', which is derived from the combination of the prefix 'en-' meaning 'to cause to be in' and 'fold', which itself comes from Old English 'fealdan', meaning 'to fold'. The act of folding has been a fundamental action in various cultures, often implying an action of concealment or protection. Its usage has evolved, but the foundational idea of surrounding or enclosing something remains central. The word reflects both physical and metaphorical meanings; it can describe the literal action of wrapping or the figurative idea of embracing concepts, emotions, or relationships.
Word Frequency Rank
This word's position of #33,699 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.
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- 33696 scantiness
- 33697 unfitting
- 33698 desegregate
- 33699 enfolding
- 33700 cubist
- 33701 cauterized
- 33702 outflank
- ...