The phrase "give cover" is spelled /ɡɪv ˈkʌvər/. It is made up of two words, with "give" spelled as /ɡɪv/ and "cover" spelled as /ˈkʌvər/. The letter "g" in "give" is pronounced as a voiced velar stop, while the "c" in "cover" is pronounced as an unvoiced alveolar affricate. The stress is on the second syllable of "cover", indicated by the apostrophe before the "v". To "give cover" means to provide protection or concealment to someone or something.
The phrase "give cover" typically refers to the act of offering protection, support, or concealment to someone or something in order to shield them from danger, harm, or detection. It is often used in a figurative sense, indicating providing assistance or backing in various situations.
To give cover means to provide a safeguard or refuge, creating a sense of security or shelter. This can involve physically shielding someone from physical harm or danger, or metaphorically protecting their reputation, interests, or secrets. It is often utilized in contexts such as warfare, where soldiers may provide cover fire to protect their comrades during an assault, ensuring their safety while advancing or retreating.
In a broader sense, to give cover can also pertain to offering support or protection in non-physical scenarios. For instance, in a professional setting, someone might give cover by defending or vouching for another individual in a meeting or when facing criticism, helping them avoid negative consequences. Additionally, giving cover can entail providing an excuse or alibi to protect someone's actions, thoughts, or decisions from scrutiny or judgment.
Overall, the act of giving cover involves providing a form of shelter, protection, or support to someone or something, whether it be in a physical, emotional, or reputational sense, with the intent of safeguarding them from harm, danger, or unwanted attention.
The phrase "give cover" does not have a specific etymology of its own. Instead, it is a combination of two separate words with their own origins.
1. "Give": The word "give" has Old English roots and comes from the Germanic word "geban". Its etymology can be traced back even further to the Proto-Indo-European root word "ghabh-", meaning "to give, receive". Over time, the word "give" has undergone various changes in different languages.
2. "Cover": The word "cover" has Middle English origins and is derived from the Old French word "covrir", meaning "to cover, protect, or conceal". It further traces back to the Latin word "cooperire", with the same meaning.
When combined, the phrase "give cover" essentially implies providing protection, concealment, or support to someone or something.