Langimage
English

environments

|en-vi-ron-ments|

B1

/ɪnˈvaɪrənmənts/

(environment)

surroundings

Base FormPluralAdverb
environmentenvironmentsenvironmentally
Etymology
Etymology Information

'environment' originates from French, specifically the word 'environner,' where 'en-' meant 'in' and 'viron' meant 'circle.'

Historical Evolution

'environner' transformed into the English word 'environment' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to surround or encircle,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'surroundings or conditions.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates.

The environments of the rainforest are rich in biodiversity.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

the natural world, as a whole or in a particular geographical area, especially as affected by human activity.

Efforts are being made to protect the environments from pollution.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/26 16:36