Here's a breakdown of its linguistic journey:
* Late Latin: *involvere* (to wrap up, to enfold)
* Old French: *enveloper* (to wrap, to envelop)
* Middle English: *enveloppen* (to wrap, to envelop)
* Modern English: *envelope*
Therefore, the word "envelope" literally means "something that is wrapped around", which perfectly describes its function as a container for letters and other documents.
Interestingly, the word first appeared in English in the 15th century, but it wasn't until the 19th century that it became associated with the specific type of paper container we know today. Before that, "envelope" had a broader meaning, encompassing various forms of wrapping and covering.