Laminating is the process of covering a document or object with a protective layer of plastic, paper or any other material to increase durability and longevity. Synonyms for the term laminating include encapsulating, coating, covering, encasing, protecting, and sealing. Encapsulation is the most closely related term to laminating, which refers to enclosing something completely within an outer layer or covering. Coating and covering refer to the process of applying a layer over a surface to protect it from damage, while encasing refers to enclosing something within a case or covering. Protecting and sealing are broad terms that can encompass many methods of safeguarding documents or materials from damage.