umbrella Definition

umbrella
noun umbrellas

1. A device carried to give shelter from rain, etc, consisting of a rounded fabric canopy supported on a lightweight, usually metal, collapsible framework of ribs fitted around a central stick or handle. This allows it to be folded down to form a slim cylinder when not in use.

Thesaurus: parasol, sunshade, brolly (slang), bumbershoot (US).
2. Anything that resembles an open umbrella in form or function.

Thesaurus: protection, cover, shield, disguise, barrier.
3. bot.
A part of a plant that resembles an open umbrella.
4. zool.
The circular or flattened bell-shaped body of a jellyfish.
5. military.
A protective screen or shield of fighter aircraft or gunfire.
(US)
6. military slang
A parachute.
7. Something, such as an organization, that provides protection or overall cover for a number of others.

adj

1. Referring to something that covers or protects a number of things.

Example: an umbrella organization
2. Said of a word, term, etc: general; covering several meanings or ideas.

Etymology: 17c: from Italian ombrella, diminutive of ombra shade; see umbra.