ensconce

[ en-skons ]

/ ɛnˈskɒns /

SEE MORE SYNONYMS FOR ensconce ON THESAURUS.COM

verb (used with object), en·sconced, en·sconc·ing.

to settle securely or snugly: I found her in the library, ensconced in an armchair.

to cover or shelter; hide securely: He ensconced himself in the closet in order to eavesdrop.

Nearby words

ens., ensa, ensample, ensanguine, enschede, ensconce, enscroll, ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem, ensemble, ensemble acting, ensenada

Origin of ensconce

First recorded in 1580–90; en-¹ + sconce²

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for ensconce

If left on the floor, they afford the family dogs, who ensconce themselves therein, a convenient refuge from flies.
The Manbos of Mindano|John M. Garvan
At the first sign of dawn the next morning they necessarily issue forth, but ensconce themselves in hiding until broad daylight.
Four Arthurian Romances|Chretien DeTroyes
It is common for the ryot to dig a shallow pit, and ensconce himself inside with his matchlock beside him.
Sport and Work on the Nepaul Frontier|James Inglis
He had been driven to ensconce the nest in a corner of his already too-well-filled den.
Tom Brown's Schooldays|Thomas Hughes

Let us ensconce ourselves in the vestibule of the sanctuary; he will be here anon.
The Works of Edgar Allan Poe|Edgar Allan Poe

British Dictionary definitions for ensconce

ensconce

/ (ɪnˈskɒns) /

verb (tr; often passive)

to establish or settle firmly or comfortablyensconced in a chair

to place in safety; hide

Word Origin for ensconce

C16: see en- 1, sconce ²

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012