insulation

noun

in·​su·​la·​tion ˌin(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən 

1

: material used in insulating

2

a

: the state of being insulated

b

: the action of insulating

Synonyms of insulation

• solitude
• privacy
• isolation
• segregation

Examples of insulation in a Sentence

These materials provide the insulation needed in cold weather.

she had grown up in such rural insulation that she'd never met anyone of a different race

Recent Examples on the Web

By combining aluminum’s low weight with a pre-applied coating, the company is targeting a way to make battery components easier to manufacture while meeting durability and insulation requirements. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 19 Sep. 2026

These growth engines are anchored by long-term contracts that lock in predictable, high-return cash flows that provide a measure of insulation from broader economic volatility. — Harvey Stober, CNBC, 15 Sep. 2026

If your attic has thin, uneven, or inadequate insulation, more of that heat can make its way into your living space. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 14 Sep. 2026

High-tech elements—motion-detectors, geothermal heat pumps, space-age insulation and the like—complement the old-school practices. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Rhymes for insulation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

insulation

noun

in·​su·​la·​tion ˌin(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən 

1

: the act of insulating : the state of being insulated

2

: material used in insulating

Medical Definition

insulation

noun

in·​su·​la·​tion ˌin(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən 

1

: the action of separating a conductor from conducting bodies by means of nonconductors so as to prevent transfer of electricity, heat, or sound

also : the state resulting from such action

2

: material used to provide insulation

insulate

ˈin(t)-sə-ˌlāt 

transitive verb

insulated; insulating