1. To cause to become: This is perhaps the most common meaning of "en-". It indicates that something is being changed or transformed into a different state.
* Examples:
* Enable: To make something possible.
* Enrich: To make something more valuable or interesting.
* Enlarge: To make something bigger.
* Entrap: To catch someone in a difficult situation.
* Entice: To tempt or persuade someone to do something.
2. To put in or into: This meaning is often related to the idea of containment or being covered.
* Examples:
* Encase: To enclose something completely.
* Enclose: To put something inside an envelope or container.
* Entomb: To bury someone or something.
3. To cause to feel: This meaning indicates a change in emotional state or sensation.
* Examples:
* Enchant: To cause someone to feel great delight or fascination.
* Enrage: To make someone very angry.
* Entice: To make someone feel tempted or attracted.
4. To emphasize or intensify: This meaning suggests that something is being made more intense or prominent.
* Examples:
* Enfold: To wrap something or someone tightly.
* Embolden: To give someone courage.
* Enhance: To improve the quality or value of something.
5. To surround or enclose: This meaning is related to the idea of being covered or surrounded.
* Examples:
* Encircle: To surround something completely.
* Enclose: To put something inside an envelope or container.
* Envelop: To cover something completely.
It's important to note that:
* The meaning of "en-" can vary depending on the word it's attached to.
* Sometimes "en-" is combined with other prefixes to create new meanings.
By understanding the different meanings of "en-", you can better understand the meanings of the words it is part of.