en
word
Definition
A prefix used to form verbs and sometimes nouns or adjectives. It often means “to cause to be in or into something” or “to put into or onto something,” as in “enable,” “encircle,” or “enrich.”
Usage & Nuances
This is not usually a standalone everyday word; it is mainly studied as a prefix in vocabulary, spelling, and word formation. It appears in words like “encourage,” “enclose,” and “ensure,” but the meaning is not always perfectly predictable in every word.
Example Sentences
We see en- in the word “enrich.”
basic
Many verbs begin with en-.
basic
The prefix en- can mean “make” in some words.
basic
I didn’t know en- was a prefix until our teacher pointed it out.
natural
Once you notice en-, a lot of word patterns start to make sense.
natural
Not every word with en- has exactly the same idea, so context still matters.
natural