Umschläge

Umschläge is the plural of Umschlag and refers to wrappers or covers that encase or protect something. In everyday German, the word is commonly used for envelopes used to send letters, but it can also denote other outer coverings, such as the dust jacket of a book or any protective wrapper used in packaging and presentation.

Envelopes, as the most common meaning, are designed to contain letters, documents, or small items. They come in various materials, including white and colored paper, kraftpapier, or lightweight plastics. Features may include a window to display the recipient’s address, self-adhesive or gummed seals, and options for extra protection such as security interiors or padded walls for fragile contents. Standard sizes in German practice include formats like DL (110 x 220 mm) and other DIN-aligned dimensions, with additional options for larger or smaller mail.

The term Umschlag is also used for a book’s protective cover, known in German as the dust jacket or Schutzumschlag. This sleeve often includes the title, author, and design artwork, serving both protective and marketing purposes. In publishing, the Umschlag can be removed and replaced without affecting the book’s binding, and it is sometimes preserved for archival editions.

Beyond mail and books, Umschläge describe any outer wrapper used in packaging or presentation, such as mailing sleeves, presentation wraps, or protective sleeves for documents and valuables. Historically, envelopes and wrappers could be sealed with wax or adhesive to secure contents and verify tampering.

Etymologically, Umschlag derives from umschlagen, meaning to wrap around or cover, reflecting the function of these items.