engulf

/ɛnˈgʌlf/

/ɛnˈgʌlf/

Other forms: engulfed; engulfing; engulfs

Engulf is a verb that means being completely surrounded, soaked, or covered. Fire, snow, smoke, flood waters, or even violence are a few things that could engulf you.

Suppose an amusement park had a ride called Into the Whirlpool. Sounds like one for thrill-seekers who aren't afraid of water. Riders should expect to get lost inside, fully absorbed by the experience. The word engulf comes from the Old French word golfe, meaning "whirlpool," and the prefix en-, meaning "in or into." Riders of Into the Whirlpool should expect to feel engulfed — surrounded by water and completely covered.

Definitions of engulf

1. verb

   flow over or cover completely
   “The bright light engulfed him completely”

   type of:

   enclose, enfold, envelop, enwrap, wrap

   enclose or enfold completely with or as if with a covering
2. verb

   devote (oneself) fully to
   synonyms: absorb, engross, immerse, plunge, soak up, steep

   immerse, plunge

   cause to be immersed

   types:

   drink, drink in

   be fascinated or spell-bound by; pay close attention to

   type of:

   center, centre, concentrate, focus, pore, rivet

   direct one's attention on something