Vocabulary Spotlight
Blanket
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A large piece of soft material used to cover or keep warm.
“She pulled a warm blanket over her shoulders to shield herself from the cold.”
Pronunciation
[ˈblæŋkɪt]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Quilt
Throw
Comforter
Spread
Antonyms
Uncover
Bare
Reveal
Strip
Related Words
Blanketed (adjective)
Covering (noun)
Word Origin
The word “blanket” originates from the Middle English word “blanchet,” meaning “a white cloth.” It traces further back to the Old French word “blanc,” meaning “white” or “light-colored.” Initially referring to a type of woolen fabric, “blanket” evolved to describe any covering, particularly for warmth, by the 14th century.
Word Family
Noun: Blanketing – The process or act of covering something with a blanket or similar material.
Adjective: Blanketed – Covered or wrapped with a blanket or similar layer.
Verb: Blanket – To cover or enclose as with a blanket.
Mnemonics
Big Layer Around Night-time Keeps Everyone Toasty
This mnemonic helps recall that a blanket is a large covering that keeps people warm, especially at night.
Industry-specific Usage
Healthcare
In healthcare, blankets are essential for patient comfort and temperature regulation, particularly during surgery and recovery.
Agriculture
In agriculture, “frost blankets” are used to protect crops from cold weather, shielding plants from frost damage.
Emergency Management
Emergency blankets, often made of reflective material, are vital in disaster relief to retain body heat and prevent hypothermia among affected individuals.
In Context
Blankets play a fundamental role in daily life, offering warmth and comfort in households worldwide. From cozying up on the couch to providing necessary insulation in emergency kits, blankets serve both practical and emotional needs. In hospitals, they are indispensable for patient care, while in humanitarian aid, they help meet basic survival needs in cold conditions.