Engulf: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when something is completely surrounded or covered, often implying a sudden and overwhelming manner.

• The fire quickly engulfed the entire building
• The city was engulfed in a blanket of fog

Swallow is used to describe taking something in through the mouth and down the throat, or in metaphorical terms, accepting something completely, sometimes reluctantly.

• The snake can swallow a whole rabbit
• He had to swallow his pride and apologize

This term is often used to describe something being pushed or going below the surface of a liquid, typically in a more controlled and deliberate sense.

• The submarine submerged to avoid detection
• They submerged the vegetables in boiling water to cook them

This word implies placing something fully into a liquid or deeply engaging in an activity, often voluntarily and thoroughly.

• She immersed herself in her studies for the upcoming exam
• The diver immersed himself in the water to explore the coral reef

Used when something is completely surrounded or covered by something else, often in a sudden and overwhelming way.

• The entire town was engulfed by the flood.
• She felt a wave of emotions engulf her.

This is the past tense of 'engulf'. Used when something has already been surrounded or covered completely.

• The car was engulfed in flames.
• They were engulfed by darkness as the power went out.

Used to describe something that is used up or destroyed, especially over time or when under the influence of strong emotions.

• He was consumed by his desire for revenge.
• The fire consumed the entire building.

Used when something is eaten hungrily or eagerly, often implying a ravenous or insatiable appetite. It can also refer to being overwhelmed by intense emotions or situations.

• The wolves devoured their prey.
• She devoured the book in one sitting.
• He was devoured by guilt.