WordGarden.ioblanket
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /blˈæŋkɪt/
US
- /ˈblæŋkət/
Meanings
Noun
a thick covering used for warmth, especially on a bed
Adjective
applying broadly to all cases or people without distinction
Verb
to cover something completely or spread over it
Beyond the definition
A blanket isn't just something to keep you warm on a chilly night. It can also cover things figuratively—like a "blanket of snow" across a landscape or a "blanket of secrecy" surrounding an event. Think of it as anything that spreads out and encompasses something else.
You might snuggle under a blanket with a good book, but you could also say a new policy provides a "blanket of protection" for workers, meaning it offers comprehensive coverage. The word likely goes back to the Old French root blanc ("white"), which once described a white woolen cloth. So, next time you see something widespread or protective, picture one big wrap around the whole situation.
The most familiar meaning of "blanket" is a covering made of soft material—like wool, cotton, or fleece—used for warmth, especially while sleeping. You might reach for one on a cold night, wrap a baby in one, or drape it over furniture to keep dust away. "She pulled the blanket tighter around her shoulders."
However, "blanket" also has several figurative meanings. It can describe something that covers a large area or encompasses many things. For example, you might hear about a "blanket of fog" rolling in or a "blanket of silence" falling over a room.
It is often used as an adjective to indicate widespread effect or total coverage: "The new law provides a blanket exemption for small businesses," meaning it applies to all small businesses without exception. Or, "There was a blanket ban on smoking in public places." This implies a complete and comprehensive prohibition.
Sometimes "blanket" suggests emotional security—like offering a "security blanket" to someone who is anxious or vulnerable. So, whether you are seeking warmth, describing widespread coverage, or suggesting a sense of safety, the word "blanket" evokes images of encompassing comfort and broad reach.
Examples
- 1
Bedding
She pulled the blanket up to her chin and went back to sleep.
- 2
Picnic
We spread a blanket on the grass and had lunch by the river.
- 3
Snow cover
By morning, a blanket of snow covered the whole street.
- 4
Complete coverage
The fog blanketed the hills until noon.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
School rules
The school introduced a blanket ban on smoking anywhere on campus.
- Phrasea blanket ban
a rule that applies in every case
- 6
Generalization
I don't like blanket statements like "teenagers are lazy."
- Phrasea blanket statement
a broad statement that treats all cases the same
- 7
Emotional comfort
Since the move, his old hoodie has become a security blanket.
- Phrasea security blanket
something that makes you feel safe or comforted
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- blanketnounverbadjective
Forms
- blanketspluralnounverbadjective
- blanketedpast tenseverbnounadjective
- blanketing-ing formverbnounadjective