to bend something, especially paper or cloth, so that one part of it lies on the other part, or to be able to be bent in this way, to close something such as a book or umbrella by bringing its parts together, a group of things that are folded together, especially a group of paper or cloth that has been folded

fold one's hands, fold of the land, in the fold

Formal and Informal Expressions of fold

In different contexts, you can replace 'fold' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'crease, pleat' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'bend, tuck' is a commonplace synonym.

fold: Explore its Definition & Usage

fold Definition

1to bend something, especially paper or cloth, so that one part of it lies on the other part, or to be able to be bent in this way
2to close something such as a book or umbrella by bringing its parts together
3a group of things that are folded together, especially a group of paper or cloth that has been folded

Using fold: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fold" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She folded the letter and put it in an envelope.
Example
He folded his arms and leaned against the wall.
Example
The table folds up for easy storage.
Example
She folded the laundry and put it away.

fold Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for fold

Antonyms for fold

Phrases with fold

fold one's hands
to bring one's hands together and rest them, often as a sign of waiting patiently or being calm
Example
She folded her hands in her lap and waited for the meeting to begin.
fold of the land
a curve or bend in the landscape, often used to describe valleys or hills
Example
The cabin was nestled in a fold of the mountains, surrounded by trees.
in the fold
included or accepted as part of a group or organization
Example
After months of negotiations, they were finally able to bring the company in the fold.

Origins of fold

from Old English 'fealdan', meaning 'to bend'

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Summary: fold in Brief

To 'fold' [fohld] means to bend something, like paper or cloth, so that one part lies on top of the other. It can also mean to close something, like a book or umbrella, by bringing its parts together. A 'fold' can refer to a group of things that have been folded together, like paper or cloth. Phrases include 'fold one's hands,' meaning to rest one's hands together, and 'in the fold,' meaning included or accepted as part of a group.