umbrella
Definition
An umbrella is a portable, handheld device that shields the user from rain or sunlight. The umbrella's canopy is typically made of fabric, but it can also be made of plastic or other materials. The canopy is supported by a frame of ribs, which are held together by a central shaft.
The umbrella's mechanism allows it to be opened and closed easily. To open the umbrella, the user flips the canopy up. To close the umbrella, the user folds the canopy down.
Umbrellas come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours. They can be made of different materials and have different features, such as windproof construction or UV protection.
Umbrellas are a popular way to protect oneself from the elements. They are also a fashion accessory, and there are many different styles and designs to choose from.
How can the word be used?
She held up her umbrella to shield herself from the sun.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
- umbrella (a handheld device consisting of a fabric canopy stretched over a spoked frame, used to protect from rain or sun).
- parasol (a light umbrella used to protect from the sun).
- sunshade (a device that provides shade from the sun, such as an umbrella or awning).
Adjective:
- umbrella (covering or protecting like an umbrella).
- umbrella term (a term that encompasses a wide range of things).
Etymology
The word "umbrella" comes from the Italian word "ombrella", which means "sunshade". The Italian word "ombrella" is derived from the Latin word "umbra", which means "shade".
The word "umbrella" is first attested in English in the 16th century. It was originally used to refer to a sunshade, but it soon came to be used to refer to an umbrella that protects from rain as well.
Question
What is an umbrella used for?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the scientific principles behind the design and functionality of an umbrella. Describe how an umbrella provides protection against rain and the force of gravity. Provide an example of a real-world application where the concept of an umbrella is used beyond its common use.
Answer:
The design and functionality of an umbrella are rooted in fundamental principles of physics. An umbrella consists of a canopy made from waterproof material supported by a collapsible frame. The curved shape of the canopy and the tension in the framework together to create an effective shield against rain.
When raindrops fall onto the curved surface of the umbrella, the shape of the canopy causes the raindrops to roll down its sides rather than penetrating through. This is due to the surface tension of water and the cohesive forces between water molecules. Additionally, the umbrella's frame provides structural support, maintaining the canopy's shape and preventing it from collapsing under the weight of accumulated rain.
Furthermore, an umbrella also demonstrates principles related to the force of gravity. The downward pull of gravity causes raindrops to fall, but the umbrella's canopy acts as a barrier that redirects the raindrops sideways. This redirection minimises the impact of gravity on the raindrops' trajectory, allowing them to slide off the canopy without reaching the person underneath.
An example of the umbrella concept being used beyond its common function is in space exploration. The principle of deploying a protective shield to deflect and redirect harmful particles or radiation is analogous to how an umbrella shields against rain. Spacecraft and satellites often use deployable shields to safeguard sensitive instruments from the harsh environment of space, demonstrating the broader application of the umbrella concept in scientific and engineering contexts.