Language Research

seal · noun C

/siːl/Full view

seal

B2 an animal with smooth fur that eats fish and lives near the sea

Dictionary example:

We could see seals swimming near the shore.

Learner example:

After leaving the Orkney Islands, we went by boat to [the] Shetland Islands, because we wanted to observe the gr[a]y seals with their pups that were [o]n the northwest coast. (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)

seal · verb

/siːl/

seal (CLOSE ENTRANCE)

C2 to close an entrance or container so that air or liquid cannot enter or leave it

Dictionary example:

She sealed the jars so the jam wouldn't spoil.

Learner example:

In Egypt, [the] Pyramids are being sealed, because the perspiration of the tourists was ruining the paintings on the walls. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Portuguese)

seal (CLOSE LETTER)

C2 to close a letter or parcel by sticking the edges together

Dictionary example:

to seal an envelope

Learner example:

Jenny, my girlfriend, told me that she sealed the envelope with trembling fingers and then posted it. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Spanish)

seal off sth or seal sth off

C2 to prevent people from entering an area or building, often because it is dangerous

Dictionary example:

Police immediately sealed off the streets.

Learner example:

The police sealed off the main street a few weeks ago because they have been building a new restaurant. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; German)