enclosed

American  

[en-klohzd] / ɛnˈkloʊzd /

adjective

1. inserted in the same envelope or package.

   Complete the enclosed contribution form and mail with your check or credit card information to the address below.

2. surrounded or shut in on all sides.

   The dogs like to hang out in the enclosed section outside the kennels.

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verb

1. the simple past tense and past participle of enclose.

Other Word Forms

• self-enclosed
  adjective
• unenclosed
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of enclosed

enclose ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Explanation

Things that are enclosed are surrounded on all sides, closed or penned in. If your grandfather's condo development is enclosed by a high fence, you might need to check in with a guard before you can visit him. Your pet guinea pig is enclosed by her cage, and when you're at school, you are enclosed by the walls of the building. Homes, car lots, gardens, and school yards are all commonly enclosed by fences. If you put a check inside your cousin's birthday card, the money is also enclosed. Enclosed comes from the verb enclose, which is rooted in the Old French enclore, "surround, confine, or contain."

Example Sentences

Hantavirus exposure often occurs in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces—homes, cabins or sheds—where rodent activity is present.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Natural England is now moving away from enclosed projects and is issuing licenses for wild beaver release.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

Lysosomes are small compartments enclosed by membranes that serve as the cell's recycling centers.

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

Gone is the tarpaulin roof: The Bird Cage is now a fully enclosed, soundstage-like structure.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

We were walking on, surrounded, enclosed, enveloped, being eaten by ants.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver

Related Words

• confined