enclose

[en-klohz]

verb (used with object)

enclosed, enclosing 

1. to shut or hem in; close in on all sides.

   a valley enclosed by tall mountains.

   Synonyms: girdle, ring, encompass, encompass, encircle

2. to surround, as with a fence or wall.

   to enclose land.

   Synonyms: girdle, ring, encompass, encompass, encircle

3. to insert in the same envelope, package, or the like.

   He enclosed a check.

   A book was sent with the bill enclosed.

4. to hold or contain.

   His letter enclosed a check.

5. Roman Catholic Church.

   1. to restrict to the enclosure of a monastery or convent.

   2. (of a monastery, convent, church, etc.) to establish or fix the boundary of an enclosure.

enclose

/ ɪnˈkləʊz /

verb

1. to close; hem in; surround

2. to surround (land) with or as if with a fence

3. to put in an envelope or wrapper, esp together with a letter

4. to contain or hold

Other Word Forms

• enclosable adjective
• encloser noun
• preenclose verb (used with object)
• reenclose verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of enclose¹

First recorded in 1275–1325, enclose is from the Middle English word enclosen, inclosen. See in- ¹, close

Example Sentences

The house will be better shielded against fire, Abraham said, with concrete roof tiles, tempered windows, sprinklers and enclosed eaves.

From Los Angeles Times

At times, he has even kept his cows enclosed instead of letting them roam, because of fears about the fires.

From BBC

At the center of the living room, a stylish enclosed wet bar, an original design by Fickett, exudes a “Mad Men” vibe.

From Los Angeles Times

They requested China enclose this section inside the embassy's security perimeter.

From BBC

Lakewood Center, one of the largest enclosed malls in Los Angeles County, spanning 2 million square feet, has been sold to developers who plan to transform it by adding housing, green spaces and entertainment venues.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• block off www.thesaurus.com
• encase 
• encircle 
• encompass 
• insert 
• wrap