Blanket

Definition

Blanket generally refers to a large piece of soft fabric, often wool or fleece, used to cover and keep warm. As an adjective, "blanket" can mean something that applies universally or covers all cases, and as a verb, it refers to the act of covering something completely.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈblæŋkɪt/
• Respelling: BLANG-kit

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈblæŋkɪt/
• Respelling: BLANG-kit

The pronunciation of "blanket" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "blanket" originates from the Old French word "blanchet," meaning "a white cloth" or "soft fabric," derived from "blanc," meaning "white." It entered the English language in the 14th century, initially referring to a cloth made of wool or other materials used for warmth.

Derivatives

• Blanketing (verb, noun)
• Blanketed (verb, past tense)
• Unblanketed (adjective)
• Blanket-like (adjective)
• Reblanket (verb)

Synonyms

• Cover
• Quilt
• Spread

Antonyms

• Uncover
• Expose
• Reveal

Usage

The term "blanket" is widely used to refer to fabric coverings used in bedding and comfort, such as wool blankets or fleece throws. In a metaphorical sense, "blanket" can describe something that applies broadly or indiscriminately, such as "a blanket ban." As a verb, it is often used to describe covering an area thoroughly, like snow blanketing a landscape. The term is also used in legal and policy contexts to refer to laws or regulations that apply universally without exception.

Related Terms

• Comforter: A thick, padded covering used on beds for warmth.
• Covering: Any material placed over something to protect or conceal it.
• Wrap: A soft, flexible cover or cloth used for warmth or protection.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A large piece of soft fabric used for warmth: Describes a cover typically placed over a bed or used for warmth.
  • Example: "She snuggled under a cozy wool blanket on a cold night."

Adjective

• Applying to all cases or universally: Refers to something that has a broad, all-encompassing application.
  • Example: "The government issued a blanket ban on outdoor gatherings."

Verb

• To cover or overlay completely: Describes the act of covering something thoroughly.
  • Example: "Snow blanketed the entire landscape overnight."