engulf

[ en-guhlf ]

verb (used with object)

1. to swallow up in or as in a gulf; submerge:

   The overflowing river has engulfed many small towns along its banks.

   Synonyms: swamp, deluge, inundate, bury, envelop

2. to plunge or immerse, as into a gulf:

   He engulfed himself in his studies.

engulf

/ ɪnˈɡʌlf /

verb

1. to immerse, plunge, bury, or swallow up
2. often passive to overwhelm

   engulfed by debts

Derived Forms

• enˈgulfment, noun

Other Words From

• en·gulfment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of engulf¹

First recorded in 1545–55; en- ¹ + gulf

Example Sentences

The Los Angeles Fire Department said the Autozone on the 1300 block of Highland Avenue at the intersection of Fountain Avenue was engulfed when firefighters arrived after a 911 call at 4:21 p.m.

From Los Angeles Times

He’s most widely known for his experimental choreography, and the exhibition’s curators are smart to start off with this rousing, engulfing example of it.

From New York Times

A few days ago, Nasa shared satellite images of a blanket of smog engulfing parts of northern India and neighbouring Pakistan.

From BBC

Their prediction was that the blue wave that engulfed California would spread across the country if Republicans dared to campaign on anti-immigrant politics ever again.

From Los Angeles Times

A cartel war that has engulfed a major city.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bury
• consume
• encompass
• envelop
• flood
• immerse
• inundate
• overrun
• overwhelm
• plunge
• submerge
• swamp