umbrella

/ʌmˈbrɛlə/
noun
  1. A device used for protection against rain or sun, consisting of a folding frame covered with fabric that opens and closes.
    • She opened her umbrella to shield herself from the sudden downpour.
    • A large beach umbrella kept our towels dry while we swam.
    • Don't forget your umbrella; the forecast says it will rain this afternoon.
  2. A thing that includes or covers many different items or groups; a protective or unifying force.
    • The alliance acted as an umbrella for several smaller environmental groups.
    • The term 'art' is an umbrella that covers painting, sculpture, music, and dance.
    • Under the umbrella of the new policy, all employees received the same benefits.
verb
  1. To cover or protect with or as if with an umbrella.
    • The mother umbrellaed her child with her coat during the walk home.
    • The large tree umbrellaed the picnic area from the blazing sun.
    • The organization umbrellaed several local charities under its name.
What does "umbrella" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean