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engulf

verb

/ɪnˈɡʌlf/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of engulf

To completely surround or submerge something with a large, often destructive force or volume of something, such as water, flames, emotions, or ideas.
"The forest fire threatens to engulf the nearby town if not controlled."

Detailed meaning of engulf

When an object or entity is engulfed, it becomes immersed and enveloped by the substance, leaving little to no visible trace. This verb conveys a sense of intense and all-encompassing absorption, where the subject is overtaken or consumed by the surrounding medium, such as water, fire, or a crowd. The concept of 'engulf' carries a connotation of being subsumed or overwhelmed, evoking a vivid image of an entity being swallowed or immersed to the point of disappearing within the surrounding environment.

Example sentences containing engulf

1. Slowly, the sunrise began to engulf the morning sky with hues of pink and orange.
2. The shock of the news threatened to engulf her, pulling her into a state of despair.
3. The mist from the mountain top can engulf the village in the early hours of dawn.
4. The flames of the campfire started to engulf the dry pine logs.
5. The feeling of loss can often engulf a person in the wake of tragedy.
6. The water will engulf the land if the dam breaks.

History and etymology of engulf

The verb 'engulf' has its origins in Middle English, where it was 'engulfen,' borrowed from Old Norse 'ingulfa,' which combines 'en-' (in) and 'gulfa' (to engulf or swallow up). It entered the English language in the 16th century. To 'engulf' means to completely surround or submerge something with a large, often destructive force or volume of something, such as water, flames, emotions, or ideas. The etymology of 'engulf' effectively conveys the idea of something being swallowed up or overwhelmed by an all-encompassing force, highlighting the sense of being entirely consumed or immersed within a particular element or experience. Whether it's the engulfing waves of the ocean, the engulfing flames of a fire, or the engulfing emotions of love, this term emphasizes the powerful and encompassing nature of the forces at play.

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Further usage examples of engulf

1. When she played the piano, the music seemed to engulf the room completely.
2. The sound of the cheering crowd started to engulf the stadium.
3. His insatiable hunger for knowledge would engulf his every waking moment.
4. Her love for her children was so immense, it seemed to engulf her entire being.
5. If the roots are not contained, the ivy will engulf the entire garden.
6. As the spaceship landed, the dust began to engulf the surrounding area.
7. A sense of peace began to engulf him as he sat by the lake.
8. Fear threatened to engulf her as she stepped into the dark alley.
9. The upcoming technology boom threatens to engulf traditional businesses.
10. Once the movie starts, the darkness will engulf the theater.
11. The aroma from the kitchen started to engulf the entire house.
12. His enthusiasm to learn started to engulf every aspect of his life.
13. The wildfire began to engulf the forest, spreading rapidly.
14. Waves of nostalgia can suddenly engulf you at unexpected times.
15. His anger started to engulf him, leading to an explosive outburst.
16. The news of the accident would soon engulf the entire town.
17. The darkness began to engulf the room as the power went out.
18. The financial crisis threatened to engulf the global economy.
19. The noise of the city can sometimes engulf your thoughts.
20. The floodwaters continued to engulf homes along the riverbanks.
21. Anxiety can swiftly engulf a person in moments of uncertainty.
22. The crowd's excitement began to engulf the stadium as the game started.
23. The vastness of space can truly engulf the imagination.