envelope

en-ve-lope · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

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

  2. 2.

    A covering or containing structure.

  3. 3.

    (Technical) The outer boundary or limit of something.

Forms

plural: envelopes

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    push the envelope — to go beyond the usual limits; to innovate or take risks
  • •
    on the back of an envelope — done quickly and informally, without careful calculation
  • •
    sealed envelope — an envelope that has been closed and cannot be opened without being noticed

Related words

See also: letter, mail, postcard, stamp
Synonyms: casing, cover, sleeve, wrapper

Etymology

From French enveloppe ("wrapper, covering"), from envelopper ("to wrap up, envelop"), from Old French envoluper, from en- ("in") + voluper ("to wrap").