Writing Tip 349: “Envelop” vs “Envelope”

If I were you, I’d be a bit cautious if someone wanted to envelope you in their arms. Does this mean they’re going to put you into a giant package and ship you off somewhere? Or perhaps this is just a typo. I’m guessing it’s a typo. But it’s typos like this that always give me pause. You can do better, folks.

Let’s consider that final “e.” Remember:

• “Envelop” is a verb, meaning to enfold or enclose completely.
• “Envelope” is a noun, referring to the folded paper container that can contain a letter.

The difference here is not only in the spelling but also in the pronunciation. If the stress is on the first part of the word, “EN-velope,” we’re talking about the noun form. If the stress is on the second syllable, “en-VEL-op,” we’re talking about the verb form.

Both words come from the same root, the Old French word envoleper, meaning to cover, fold, or wrap up; both have to do with surrounding something by something else. But they just aren’t the same word, and they cannot be used interchangeably.

Don’t push the envelope with your spelling choices. There’s being a rebel, and then there’s just causing confusion. Confusion should be avoided at all costs.

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