Definition of "umbrella" in English

noun

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

   • Quick, grab that umbrella before you get rained on!

2. (figurative) Anything that provides similar protection.

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

3. (figurative) 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.

4. (ice hockey) A strategy in which five players in the offensive zone form an umbrella-shaped formation around the opposition's goal net.

5. 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.

6. (photography, television) An umbrella-shaped reflector with a white or silvery inner surface, used to diffuse a nearby light.

verb

1. (transitive) To cover or protect, as if by an umbrella.

2. (intransitive) To form the dome shape of an open umbrella.

3. (intransitive) To move like a jellyfish.