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Umbrella Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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umbrella

[ˌʌmˈbrɛlə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

rainy day accessory

A portable device designed to protect a person from rain or sunlight, consisting of a circular canopy of cloth on a folding metal frame supported by a central rod.

Synonyms

brolly, gamp, parasol.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
umbrella

Standard term used for a device to protect against rain; commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.

  • Don't forget to take your umbrella; it looks like it might rain!
parasol

A lightweight umbrella used to protect from the sun rather than the rain; often used in historical or formal contexts.

  • She opened her parasol to shield herself from the bright afternoon sun
brolly

Informal British English term for an umbrella; often used in casual speech.

  • Grab your brolly before we head out; it's starting to drizzle
gamp

Old-fashioned British English term for a large, often unwieldy umbrella; not commonly used today.

  • She was carrying an enormous gamp, much too big for the light drizzle outside

Examples of usage

  • I always carry an umbrella in my bag in case it starts raining.
  • Don't forget to take an umbrella with you, the weather forecast predicts rain.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, walking with an umbrella is a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
  • In some Asian cultures, umbrellas are used in traditional dances and ceremonies, representing protection and peace.

Design and Innovation

  • The modern umbrella was patented in the 19th century, improving on earlier designs that were often bulky and not waterproof.
  • Foldable umbrellas emerged in the 20th century, allowing easy storage and making them more popular.

Science and Weather

  • Umbrellas are tested in wind tunnels to study how they hold up against strong gusts and prevent breakage.
  • Some umbrellas come with UV protection, blocking harmful rays from the sun.

Literature and Art

  • Umbrellas have been used symbolically in literature to represent both protection and vulnerability.
  • Artists like Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir captured scenes of people with umbrellas in the rain, depicting human emotions and interactions.

Origin of 'umbrella'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'umbrella' comes from the Latin word 'umbra', meaning shadow or shade.
  • In its early use, an umbrella was primarily designed for shade against the sun, not just rain.

The word 'umbrella' originated from the Latin word 'umbella', which means 'sunshade'. Umbrellas have been used for centuries for protection against the elements, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient civilizations. In the 18th century, umbrellas became popular in Europe as a fashionable accessory, and their design has evolved over time to be more portable and convenient.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,868 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.