umbrella

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   covering or applying simultaneously to a number of similar items or elements or groups

   an umbrella organization

2. 2
   noun

   having the function of uniting a group of similar things

   the Democratic Party is an umbrella for many liberal groups

3. 3
   noun

   a formation of military planes maintained over ground operations or targets

   an air umbrella over England

4. 4
   noun

   A cloth-covered frame used for protection against rain or sun.

   Quick, grab that umbrella before you get rained on!

5. 5
   noun

   Anything that provides similar protection.

   The fighters provide a defensive air umbrella over the battle group.

6. 6
   noun

   Anything that provides similar overarching coverage of a range of concepts, purposes, groups, etc.

   The test facility was established under the umbrella of the company's quality program.

7. 7
   noun

   The main body of a jellyfish, excluding the tentacles.

   Jellyfish are composed of more than 90% water and most of their umbrella mass is made up of gelatinous material.

8. 8
   noun

   An umbrella-shaped reflector with a white or silvery inner surface, used to diffuse a nearby light.

   Using umbrellas for shooting a wedding party is ok, but not necessary.

Etymology

Borrowed from Italian ombrella (“parasol, sunshade”), from Late Latin umbrella (influenced by umbra (“shadow, shade”)), from Latin umbella, from umbra + -la (diminutive suffix).