ENGLISH
REFERENCE

covering

n. countable
B1 Intermediate US //ˈkəvɝɪŋ// UK //kˈʌvəɹɪŋ// cov·er·ing

n. a layer of something that sits on top of another thing to protect or hide it.

n. a layer of material that spreads over or wraps around a surface, typically for protection, insulation, or concealment.


SIMPLE

A thick covering of snow hides the garden path.

CONTEXTUAL

The workers applied a waterproof covering to the roof to prevent leaks during the rainy season.

COMPLEX

The ancient manuscript was preserved beneath a protective covering of treated leather, which shielded the delicate vellum from humidity and light damage.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology 1

Present participle or participial adjective from cover (verb) + -ing; or, from Middle English coverynge, participle form of coveren, keveren (“to cover”).

Etymology 2

From Middle English coverynge, -inge, keverynge, -inge [verbal noun of coveren, keveren (“to cover”)]; or, verbal noun from cover (verb) + -ing.

Usage

Often followed by the preposition 'of' to specify the material being used.

© 2026 English Reference