verb (used with object), en·sconced, en·sconc·ing.
- to settle securely or snugly: I found her in the library, ensconced in an armchair.
- to cover or shelter; hide securely: He ensconced himself in the closet in order to eavesdrop.
verb (tr; often passive)
- to establish or settle firmly or comfortablyensconced in a chair
- to place in safety; hide
1580s, “to cover with a fort,” from en- (1) “make, put in” + sconce “small fortification, shelter,” perhaps via French, probably from Dutch schans “earthwork” (cf. Middle High German schanze “bundle of sticks”), of uncertain origin. Related: Ensconced.