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Definition engulf in British English

engulf verb

[transitive] verb
/ɪnˈɡʌlf/
1

to cover or surround something in a way that harms or destroys it

Example

Several workers died in the landslide that engulfed the old factory.

Example

Within minutes, the car was engulfed in flames.

Synonyms and related words
2

if a thought or emotion engulfs you, it controls your thoughts or feelings

Example

Feelings of panic engulfed them.

Synonyms and related words
2.1

if something bad or unpleasant engulfs people, it affects them seriously

Example

a conflict that threatened to engulf the entire continent

Synonyms and related words
Definition engulf in British English