Umbrella is another term for parasol, which was first used as protection against the scorching heat of the sun, "para" meaning prepare or shield and "sol" meaning sun. The word "umbrella" has evolved from the Latin "umbella" (and "umbel" is a flat-topped rounded flower) or "umbra" meaning shade.

Umbrellas are available in many different styles and sizes. They are made by stretching a fabric or other material over a wire frame (canopy) and have a shaft which connects to a handle for carrying. Some umbrellas such as golf, stick, beach and fashion have long shafts and can only be stored in large places such as a closet or trunk of a car.

Folding umbrellas are collapsible and depending upon the arc size when closed can be stored in an attaché case, pocketbook, glove compartment, shirt pocket or under the front seat of a car. The basic concept of folding umbrellas is the shaft is short when the umbrella is closed. Some folding golf umbrellas, which have a large arc size, have a long shaft when open. During the closing process, the shaft collapses to a smaller size. When closed, folding golf umbrellas are still long but can be stored under the front seat of a car or other convent places.

Because of their physical size, folding umbrellas are the most popular of all umbrella styles. In addition to size, they are available in a number of different colors and patterns. They are also available as manual open, automatic open or automatic open and close. Folding umbrellas also are available in windproof or vented. The vented umbrella has a double canopy which vents the wind out from the top. This style of umbrella prevents them from turning inside out. Windproof umbrellas have fiberglas ribs. It the umbrella turns inside out, it can be snapped back into place without being destroyed.

Folding umbrellas are also used as promotional items or advertising specialty on which a logo or promotional message is imprinted.