English Reference
noun · verb

sealing

n. · v.
US /ˈsiɫɪŋ/ UK /sˈiːlɪŋ/ seal·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the act of closing something so tightly that nothing can get in or out.

    n.the process or action of making a container or space airtight, watertight, or secure against tampering.

    Simple

    The sealing of the windows helped keep the house warm during the winter.

    In context

    Proper sealing of the laboratory samples is essential to prevent cross-contamination during the long-term storage phase.

    openingunsealing
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical

    n.the activity of hunting seals, usually for their fur, skin, or oil.

    n.the commercial or subsistence hunting of seals.

    Simple

    Many countries have passed laws to limit sealing in the Arctic.

    In context

    The decline of traditional sealing has had a significant economic impact on several remote coastal communities in the north.

    seal hunting
  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    v.the action of closing something firmly or marking it with an official stamp.

    v.the present participle of 'seal', used to describe the ongoing action of closing, fastening, or authenticating.

    Simple

    He was sealing the envelopes when he realized he forgot to sign the letters.

    In context

    The notary was busy sealing the legal documents to ensure their authenticity before the court session began.

Barcelona have won the last two La Liga titles, sealing last season’s against Real Madrid, who they finished eight points clear of at the top of the table.

The Guardian· 15 Aug 2026

After sealing her first victory since June, 30-year-old Boulter will face Wimbledon champion and sixth seed Linda Noskova in the second round.

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026

Etymology 1

From seal (“device”) + -ing.

Etymology 2

From seal (“mammal”) + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated