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ensconce

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ɪnˈskɒns/

KK: /ɪnˈskɑns/

transitive verb
Definition

To place or hide something in a safe or comfortable position.


Example

After a long day, he ensconced himself in his favorite chair with a good book.


Tense Forms

Past: ensconced

Past Participle: ensconced


Conversation
Sloth A
I found a perfect spot in the garden to ensconce my new flower pots.
Sloth B
That sounds lovely! I bet they'll look great there.
Sloth A
Yeah, I want to ensconce them where they can get enough sunlight.
Sloth B
Good idea! Sunlight is key for healthy plants.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
nestle
settle
hide
Antonyms
expose
reveal
displace
Root Explanation

Ensconce → It originates from the Middle English 'ensconcen', which comes from the Old French 'sconcer' (meaning to cover or protect) and the prefix 'en-' (meaning to cause to be in). The word means to establish or settle someone securely or comfortably, as if covering or protecting them.

Memory Tip

Think of someone being 'covered' or 'protected' ('sconcer') when they are securely settled in a place.

Visually Confused Words
sconce
unsconced
sconcer
enounce
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