Definition

A tool used to keep dry in the rain or to provide shade from the sun, made of a fabric canopy that opens and closes on a stick.

Example

She opened her umbrella when it started to rain.

Conversation

Did you bring your umbrella for the picnic today?

I forgot it at home!

That’s okay, I have an extra umbrella in my car.

Great! Let’s hope we don’t need it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To protect or cover something with a device that provides shelter from rain or sun.

Example

She decided to umbrella the picnic area to keep it dry during the rain.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I forgot my umbrella and it looks like it's going to rain.

That's unfortunate! Do you want to share mine?

Thanks! I really appreciate you offering to umbrella me.

Root Explanation

Umbrella comes from the Italian word 'ombrella', which is derived from 'ombra' (meaning shade or shadow). The word originally referred to a device that provides shade from the sun or protection from rain.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ombra', which means shade, to remember that an umbrella is something that provides shade or protection from the elements.

Visually Confused Words