Pronunciation: [ˈɛnmjʊ͡ə] (IPA) 
Enmure (ɪnˈmjʊə) is a verb that means to confine or imprison someone. This word is spelled using the prefix "en-" which denotes a meaning of "to put into," and the word "mure" which means "to wall up." The correct spelling of enmure is often mistaken with "immure," which has the same meaning but spelled with a different prefix. It is important to note the correct spelling to avoid confusion and to communicate effectively.
The term "enmure" is a rare verb in the English language that refers to the act of confining or imprisoning someone, or oneself, within a confined space or four walls. This word is derived from the combination of the prefix "en-" meaning "to cause to be in" or "to enclose," and the noun "mure" meaning a wall or boundary.
When a person enmures themselves, they voluntarily withdraw from society and isolate themselves from the external world, often seeking solace, self-reflection, or protection. This act can stem from various reasons such as personal retreat, spiritual contemplation, or a desire for privacy. Similarly, when someone is enmured by others, it signifies a forcible confinement or imprisonment against their will, leading to a sense of captivity or entrapment.
Enmuring can be both psychological and physical in nature. It can involve retreating to a physical space, such as a room or a secret chamber, or it can occur within one's mind, wherein they retreat into their own thoughts and emotions, effectively closing themselves off from external influences.
Due to its infrequent usage, "enmure" is considered an archaic or literary term. Its nuances indicate a deliberate or imposed act of isolation, distinguishing it from other synonyms like "confinement" or "incarceration." Overall, enmure encapsulates the notion of being enclosed within space, both literally and metaphorically, illustrating the impact and intensity of seclusion.
The word "enmure" is derived from the Latin term "immurare", which is composed of two elements: "im" meaning "in" or "into", and "murus" meaning "wall". "Immurare" originally meant "to wall in" or "to enclose within walls". Over time, the prefix "im-" was changed to "en-" in English, resulting in the modern form "enmure". It refers to the act of confining or imprisoning someone or something within a wall or enclosed space, both literally and metaphorically.
