umbrella

• Objet portatif composé d'une toile repliable montée sur une tige centrale, utilisé pour se protéger de la pluie ou du soleil.

A noun with multiple meanings: a portable canopy used for protection against rain or sun; a formation of military aircraft providing cover; or a term that unites a group of similar items or concepts.

1. Rain protectionA1formal

   A device used for protection against rain, consisting of a collapsible canopy on a central pole.

   parapluie

   • She opened her umbrella when it started to rain.
   • Don't forget to take an umbrella with you today.
   • He shared his umbrella with his friend in the downpour.

   Synonymesbrollygampparasol

2. Sun protectionA2formal

   A device used for protection against the sun, often called a parasol.

   Parasol

   • They sat under a large umbrella on the beach.
   • The outdoor cafe provides umbrellas for shade.
   • She used a colorful umbrella to protect herself from the sun.

   Synonymesparasolsunshade

3. Figurative: covering or protectionB2formal

   Something that provides protection, coverage, or includes many different elements.

   Parapluie (sens figuré)

   • The term 'vehicle' is an umbrella term for cars, trucks, and buses.
   • The organization acts as an umbrella for several smaller charities.
   • The new law provides an umbrella of protection for consumers.

   Synonymesaegiscoverpatronageprotectionsheltershield