envelope
UK[ˈɛnvələʊp]US[ˈɛnvəloʊp]
n
a flat paper container, usually with a flap that can be sealed, used for enclosing a letter or document.
n
a covering or containing structure or layer, especially one that encloses something completely.
Morpheme Breakdown
en
velope
en
in, into
velope
wrap, cover
Etymology
the word 'envelope' entered english in the early 18th century from the french word 'enveloppe', which itself came from the verb 'envelopper', meaning "to wrap up". the french verb is a combination of the prefix 'en-' (from latin 'in-', meaning "in") and a root likely related to the germanic 'wlappan', meaning "to wrap, fold". the core concept of wrapping or folding something in a covering is preserved from its origins. the modern english meaning evolved from the general sense of a wrapper to specifically denote the paper container for a letter, which encloses its contents.
Analysis
Structure: en (in, into) + velope (wrap, cover)
en: from latin 'in-', meaning "in, into". a prefix indicating a putting into or onto a state.
velope: from french 'veloper', meaning "to wrap up, cover". derived from latin 'volvere', meaning "to roll".
Examples
she sealed the letter and placed it in a white envelope.
the spacecraft's heat envelope protects it during re-entry into the atmosphere.
please write your return address on the front of the envelope.