Envelope: meaning, definitions and examples
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envelope
[ ˈɛnvəˌloʊp ]
stationery
A flat paper container with a sealable flap, used to enclose a letter or document.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
envelope |
This word is commonly used for the paper covering used to send letters or documents through the mail.
|
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.
|
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.
|
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.
|
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.
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?
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.
|
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.
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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.
|
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.
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Examples of usage
- The envelope of the family of circles is a cardioid.
- The envelope of the family of planes is a cylinder.
Translations
Translations of the word "envelope" in other languages:
🇵🇹 envelope
🇮🇳 लिफाफा
🇩🇪 Umschlag
🇮🇩 amplop
🇺🇦 конверт
🇵🇱 koperta
🇯🇵 封筒 (ふうとう)
🇫🇷 enveloppe
🇪🇸 sobre
🇹🇷 zarf
🇰🇷 봉투
🇸🇦 ظرف
🇨🇿 obálka
🇸🇰 obálka
🇨🇳 信封 (xìnfēng)
🇸🇮 kuverta
🇮🇸 umslag
🇰🇿 конверт
🇬🇪 საფოსტო კონვერტი
🇦🇿 zərf
🇲🇽 sobre
Etymology
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.
- ...
- 5428 vacation
- 5429 shield
- 5430 altar
- 5431 envelope
- 5432 presumption
- 5433 specialist
- 5434 curiosity
- ...