English Lexicon

Umbrella

/ʌmˈbrɛlə/
nounCEFR A2 (Elementary)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A device consisting of a circular canopy of cloth on a folding frame supported by a central rod, used for protection against rain or sun.

    "She opened her umbrella to shield herself from the sudden downpour."
  2. 2

    A term used metaphorically to describe a protective or encompassing structure or concept.

    "The organization operates under the umbrella of environmental protection."

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Synonyms (3)
Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'umbrella' originates from the Latin 'umbra', meaning 'shade' or 'shadow'. It evolved through the Italian 'ombrello', which referred to a device used for protection against rain and sun, becoming widely adopted in English in the 17th century.

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