enfold

[ en-fohld ]

verb (used with object)

1. to wrap up; envelop:

   to enfold someone in a cloak.

2. to surround as if with folds:

   He wished to enfold her in the warmth of his love. What happened is enfolded in mystery.

3. to hug or clasp; embrace:

   She enfolded him in her arms.

4. to form into a fold or folds:

   The material of the skirt had been enfolded to form a loose, graceful drape.

enfold

/ ɪnˈfəʊld /

verb

1. to cover by enclosing
2. to embrace
3. to form with or as with folds

Derived Forms

• enˈfolder, noun
• enˈfoldment, noun

Other Words From

• en·folder noun
• en·foldment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of enfold¹

First recorded in 1585–95; en- ¹ + fold ¹

Example Sentences

Cynthia puts her hands out to clasp mine and then enfolds me in her arms.

From BBC

But there are no chips or computerized warning systems sophisticated enough to predict Taiwan’s biggest threat: a deepening political and economic rivalry between the United States and China that threatens to enfold the entire world.

From Los Angeles Times

Aware of their power to enfold people’s attention and affect their view of the present, Trump has used spectacles and hate-spewing humor to keep people engaged in his shenanigans.

From Salon

But he enfolds antisemitism, or at least has no objection to it, when it serves his needs.

From Salon

Little did I know this decision would nearly get me arrested, set me on a path across two coasts, instigate community programming, and enfold kindred spirits near and far.

From Seattle Times