encase

IPA/ɪnˈkeɪs/
KK[ɛnkˈes]IPA/ɪnˈkeɪs/

encase — verb

  • encasepresent simple I / you / we / they
  • encaseshe / she / it
  • encasedpast simple
  • encasing-ing form

1. to put something or someone inside a firm outer layer so it is fully closed in,

1.verbtransitiveB2
Definition

to put something or someone inside a firm outer layer so it is fully closed in, often for protection or display.

Example

Christopher encased the model ship in glass before the school fair.

encase + object + in + material

Workers encased the water pipe in concrete to stop winter damage.

encase + object + in concrete

Common collocations
  • encase in glass
  • encase in concrete
  • encase in plaster
  • encased in amber
Synonyms
  • enclose

    broader and can describe any surrounding boundary

  • surround

    focuses on being all around something, not necessarily sealing it in a layer

  • seal

    stresses closing an opening so nothing gets in or out

Antonyms
  • expose

    leave something open or uncovered instead of protecting it

  • uncover

    remove a covering rather than adding one

Grammar Patterns

encase + object + in + material

be encased in + material

Usage Note

Usually takes a concrete object as its object and is often followed by in plus the material that surrounds it. It is more common in formal descriptions than in everyday conversation.

Common Mistakes

They encased the table with a cloth.
They covered the table with a cloth.
'encase' suggests a firm, complete outer layer, not a loose covering.

Synonym discussion

Sense: verb/1

Encase usually suggests putting something inside a firm outer layer such as glass, plastic, or concrete. Enclose is broader and can describe any kind of surrounding boundary, while seal focuses on closing an opening so air, liquid, or dirt cannot pass through.

enclose ↗cover ↗seal ↗

Common collocations

Phrases

  • encase in glass
  • encase in concrete
  • encase in plaster
  • encased in amber

Prepositions

  • encase in