Engulf: meaning, definitions and examples

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engulf

 

[ ɪnˈɡʌlf ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

in water

To completely surround or cover something, especially with a liquid.

Synonyms

immerse, submerge, swallow

Examples of usage

  • The small boat was engulfed by the huge waves.
  • The city was engulfed by the floodwaters.
Context #2 | Verb

in flames

To be completely surrounded by flames or smoke.

Synonyms

consumed, devoured, engulfed

Examples of usage

  • The old building was quickly engulfed by the fire.
  • The forest fire continued to engulf the trees.

Translations

Translations of the word "engulf" in other languages:

🇵🇹 engolir

🇮🇳 निगलना

🇩🇪 verschlingen

🇮🇩 menelan

🇺🇦 поглинати

🇵🇱 pochłaniać

🇯🇵 飲み込む (nomikomu)

🇫🇷 engloutir

🇪🇸 engullir

🇹🇷 yutmak

🇰🇷 삼키다 (samkida)

🇸🇦 يبتلع

🇨🇿 pohltit

🇸🇰 pohltiť

🇨🇳 吞噬 (tūnshì)

🇸🇮 pogoltniti

🇮🇸 gleypa

🇰🇿 жұту

🇬🇪 გადაყლაპვა

🇦🇿 udmaq

🇲🇽 engullir

Etymology

The word 'engulf' originated from the Middle English word 'gulfen', which means to engulf or swallow up. It has been used in the English language since the 16th century. The prefix 'en-' adds emphasis to the word 'gulf', which refers to a deep chasm or large expanse. Over time, 'engulf' has come to signify the act of completely surrounding or covering something, especially with a liquid or flames.

See also: engulfed, engulfment.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,507, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.