Fold

Definition

Fold refers to the act of bending something over on itself, typically to reduce its size or fit a particular shape. It can also mean a crease or pleat in material, a group of people united by a common purpose, or, in geology, a curve in rock layers. As a verb, it describes the action of folding or ceasing operations.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /foʊld/
• Respelling: FOHLD

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fəʊld/
• Respelling: FOHLD

Etymology

The word "fold" originates from Old English "fealdan," meaning "to bend or fold," derived from Proto-Germanic "*falthaną" and Proto-Indo-European "*pel-" (to turn or twist). It has retained its basic meaning across Germanic languages and into Middle English.

Derivatives

• Folding (adjective/noun)
• Folder (noun)
• Unfold (verb)
• Foldable (adjective)
• Refold (verb)

Synonyms

• Bend
• Crease
• Group

Antonyms

• Unfold
• Straighten
• Disband

Usage

The verb "fold" is commonly used to describe the action of bending an object ("She folded the paper into a square"). As a noun, "fold" refers to the result of such an action ("The shirt has neat folds") or metaphorically as a group ("He returned to the fold of his community").

Related Terms

• Crease: A line or ridge produced by folding.
• Layer: A thickness of material, often folded or laid over another.
• Pleat: A type of fold in fabric.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To bend something over on itself: Refers to reducing the size or changing the shape by doubling or layering.
  • Example: "She folded the map neatly before putting it away."
• To cease operations or close down: Describes the ending of a business or activity.
  • Example: "The company folded due to financial losses."
• To bring together or incorporate: Refers to the inclusion or integration of something.
  • Example: "Gently fold the egg whites into the batter."

Noun

• A bend or crease in material: Refers to the visible line or ridge formed when something is folded.
  • Example: "The folds in the curtain added texture to the design."
• A group or community bound by a shared purpose: Used metaphorically to describe unity.
  • Example: "He welcomed her back into the fold of their family."
• A curved geological formation: Refers to a layer of rock bent by pressure.
  • Example: "The mountain range features several prominent folds."