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Envelope Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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envelope

[ˈɛnvəˌloʊp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

stationery

A flat paper container with a sealable flap, used to enclose a letter or document.

Synonyms

cover, packet, wrapper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
envelope

This word is commonly used for the paper covering used to send letters or documents through the mail.

  • I need a stamp to send this letter in an envelope.
  • Please put the invitation in an envelope before mailing it.
wrapper

The word is used for the material that covers and protects an item, typically for packaging. It might be plastic, paper, or foil, especially around food items or gifts.

  • Don't forget to remove the wrapper before microwaving the food.
  • The chocolate wrappers are all around the room after the party.
cover

Use 'cover' when referring to something that protects, conceals, or shelters an object. It is more general and can be used for different types of protection.

  • Always use a cover to keep your food from spilling.
  • The book cover is very colorful.
packet

This term is often used for a small package or bundle, generally containing multiple items or information. It is frequently used in contexts related to food, information kits, or small multipart items.

  • She handed me a packet of seeds to plant in the garden.
  • The orientation packet contains all the details you need.

Examples of usage

  • I put the letter in the envelope and sealed it with a kiss.
  • She opened the envelope and found a surprise inside.
Context #2 | Noun

mathematics

A curve or surface that is tangent to every one of a family of curves or surfaces.

Synonyms

boundary, intersection, tangent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
envelope

Used to describe a paper covering for a letter or document. It can also metaphorically describe a context or limit that encloses something.

  • Please put the letter in an envelope before sending it.
  • Pushing the envelope in terms of creativity is essential.
tangent

Used in mathematics to describe a line that touches a curve at a single point without crossing it. Colloquially, it means a sudden change of topic in conversation.

  • In geometry, a tangent line only touches the circle at one point.
  • He went off on a tangent about hiking after we started discussing books.
intersection

Describes a place where two or more roads or lines cross each other. It can also be used figuratively to indicate a point where different things meet or converge.

  • There is a traffic light at the intersection of Main Street and First Avenue.
  • The intersection of art and technology creates fascinating innovations.
boundary

Refers to a physical or metaphorical line or limit that marks the edge or border of an area or concept. Can be used in various fields such as geography, personal space, or disciplines.

  • The river forms the boundary between the two countries.
  • It's important to set boundaries in relationships.

Examples of usage

  • The envelope of the family of circles is a cardioid.
  • The envelope of the family of planes is a cylinder.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Before the modern envelope, letters were folded and sealed with wax, making the envelope a significant innovation for sending messages.
  • The first commercial envelope-making machine was invented in 1845, revolutionizing postal services.
  • In early times, envelopes weren't used—letters were often folded, tied, and sealed, which made the advent of envelopes a game changer in mail delivery.

Art and Design

  • Envelopes can be creatively designed; many artists use them as a canvas, transforming them into unique pieces of art.
  • The craft of envelope-making includes various techniques like hand-lettering and collage, often seen in DIY invitations and personal letters.
  • Colored and patterned envelopes add personality to mail and are frequently used in special occasions like weddings and holidays.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, sending letters in envelopes symbolizes respect and formality in communication.
  • Some traditions involve giving money in decorated envelopes during celebrations, such as weddings and lunar new year, which adds a layer of cultural significance.
  • The design and color of an envelope can carry meanings, like red envelopes in Chinese culture often symbolize good luck.

Technology

  • With the rise of digital communication, physical envelopes are less common, but their designs are still important in branding and marketing.
  • The security features in envelopes have evolved, including tamper-proof seals and peel-and-stick adhesives for convenience.
  • Virtual envelope concepts exist in email, where digital messages have similar formatting and can be categorized like physical letters.

Origin of 'envelope'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'envelope' comes from the French 'enveloppe', meaning 'to wrap up'.
  • It was first recorded in English in the late 18th century, evolving from earlier words meaning to enclose.
  • The suffix 'lope' in 'envelope' is related to the word 'wrap' in its original context.

The word 'envelope' originated from the Old French word 'enveloppe', meaning 'a wrapper or covering'. It was first used in the 14th century to refer to a paper container for a letter. Over time, the usage of 'envelope' expanded to include mathematical contexts, where it refers to a curve or surface that is tangent to a family of curves or surfaces.

See also: envelop.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,431 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.