B1adjective2K

Covered

UK /["/ˈkʌvəd/"]/US /["/ˈkʌvərd/"]/

Definition

having a layer or amount of something on it

In simple words: to have something on top of or protecting something else.

Examples

  • The picnic area was well covered with trees, providing plenty of shade.
  • Make sure the cake is completely covered with frosting before serving.
  • The covered wagons traveled across the plains on their way to the West.
  • He felt safe under the covered porch during the rain.
  • She gave a covered criticism of his performance during the meeting.

Usage notes

Use 'covered' to describe something that has been placed over another object. It's appropriate in both written and spoken contexts, but can be less common in highly formal writing. Avoid using it for abstract ideas without a physical cover.

Grammar pattern

covered + object

Memory hint

Imagine a blanket covering you — it keeps you warm and is a protective layer.

Collocations

  • be
  • become
  • remain
  • well
  • absolutely
  • completely
  • by
  • in
  • with
  • covered from head to foot
  • covered from head to toe

Synonyms

  • concealed
  • shrouded
  • enshrouded
  • protected
  • overlaid

Antonyms

  • uncovered
  • exposed

Common mistakes

  • Confusing past tense 'covered' with present tense 'cover'.
  • Using 'covered' without an object (e.g., 'The table is covered' should specify what it's covered with).