Envelop or Envelope?

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Envelop or Envelope?

What is the difference between "envelop" and "envelope"?
  • "To envelop" means to surround or to enclose.
  • "An envelope" is a flat paper container with a sealable flap that is used to enclose a document.
  • "An envelope" can also refer to the limits of a system's capability (e.g., top speed, highest pressure, greatest output).
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More about "Envelop" and "Envelope"

The verb "to envelop" (without an "e" on the end) means "to surround" or "to enclose." It is sometimes confused with the noun "envelope," which most commonly refers to a flat rectangular paper container for a letter.

Envelop

The verb "to envelop" can mean "to surround," "to enclose," "to cover up," "to conceal," or — in military circles — "to conduct a flanking manoeuvre." In the 19th century, the verb was spelled with an "e" on the end, and this likely contributes to people confusing it with "envelope." In the past tense, the "e" reappears (e.g., The German division enveloped the town.)

Example sentences with "envelop":


"The bridge was enveloped by fog."
  • Every year, an eerie mist envelops the hotel on the anniversary of his gruesome murder.

Envelope

The noun "envelope" has two meanings:

(1) A flat package (usually made of paper) that is designed to hold papers (e.g., letters, cards).

For example:


A selection of envelopes
  • Most envelope glue is produced tree sap.
(2) The limits of a system's operating capability.

For example:
  • We're pushing the documented envelope by increasing the speed.
  • In June's test flights, the speed and altitude envelope was progressively expanded from the previously flown 170 knots and 12,000 feet.
Children's Joke to Help Remind You


Q: What word starts with "e," ends in "e," but only has one letter in it?
A: Envelope.
Interactive Exercise
Here are three randomly selected questions from a larger exercise, which can be edited, printed to create an exercise worksheet, or sent via email to friends or students.

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See Also

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