seal

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun

n. something that closes a container or joint so that no air or liquid can get out.

n. a device or substance used to join two surfaces together to prevent the escape of a gas or liquid.

“Make sure the rubber seal on the jar is clean before you close it.”

“The engineer inspected the airtight seal on the pressure valve to ensure no hydraulic fluid could escape during the test.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Law Formal

n. a design or piece of wax used to show that a document is official or has not been opened.

n. an embossed emblem, figure, or symbol used as evidence of authenticity or to attest to the formal execution of a document.

日本語:はんこ※

“The king pressed his ring into the hot wax to create a royal seal.”

“The document bore the official seal of the university, confirming that the degree had been conferred by the academic board.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Military American English

n. a member of an elite special forces unit in the US Navy.

n. a member of the United States Navy Sea, Air, and Land Teams, which is the primary special operations force of the US Navy.

“He spent six years serving as a Navy SEAL before becoming a pilot.”

“The mission was carried out by a highly trained team of SEALs who specialised in underwater reconnaissance and tactical extraction.”

B1 · Intermediate

v. to close something very securely so that nothing can get in or out.

v. to fasten or close something securely to prevent leakage or unauthorised access.

“You should seal the envelope before you put it in the post box.”

“The technician used a specialised polymer to seal the cracks in the foundation, preventing further water damage to the basement.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to make something certain or final, like a deal or a fate.

v. to establish or settle something definitively; to make a decision or outcome irrevocable.

“The two companies shook hands to seal the deal.”

“The late goal in the final minute of the match served to seal the team's victory and secure their place in the finals.”

C1 · Advanced Cooking Technical

v. to cook the outside of meat quickly at a high heat to keep the juices inside.

v. to brown the surface of meat quickly at a high temperature to develop flavour and texture through the Maillard reaction.

“Seal the steak in a hot pan for two minutes on each side.”

“The chef instructed the apprentices to seal the venison loin thoroughly before transferring it to the oven for slow roasting.”