Tell me more ×
English Language & Usage Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for linguists, etymologists, and serious English language enthusiasts. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 2 down vote favorite

What's the difference between "shrouded with" and "covered with"? Any different hues of meaning here?

share|improve this question

1 Answer

up vote 5 down vote accepted

The difference is largely one of connotation. The verb to shroud derives from the noun shroud, which typically refers to a sheet used to cover the dead for burial in some religious traditions. Because of this association, when you say that something is shrouded with or shrouded in, it connotes an atmosphere of mystery, gloom, or the numinous.

Shrouded in also lends itself more readily to metaphorical usages. You might say that "The castle was shrouded in mist", but it would sound odd to say that "The castle was covered in mist".

share|improve this answer
WOW!!! Thank you very much, JSBangs, for this insight! It really answers my question. – brilliant Nov 28 '10 at 15:29
Additional note: becuase of the connotation of mystery, shrouded also frequently implies 'hidden by'. I might say something was covered with a tarpaulin, but I would be likely to say 'shrouded with' only if it was a camouflage pattern. – Tynam May 25 '12 at 14:17

protected by RegDwighт♦ Mar 11 '12 at 20:25

This question is protected to prevent "thanks!", "me too!", or spam answers by new users. To answer it, you must have earned at least 10 reputation on this site.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.