igloo

noun

ig·​loo ˈi-(ˌ)glü 

plural igloos

1

: a usually dome-shaped dwelling of arctic regions that is usually made of blocks of snow or ice when built for temporary purposes or of sod, wood, or stone when permanent and that is typically associated with the Indigenous Inuit, Inupiat, and Yupik peoples of Canada, Greenland, Alaska, and eastern Siberia

2

: a building or structure shaped like a dome

Illustration of igloo

• igloo 1

Examples of igloo in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For the ultimate viewing experience, guests can book one of the two glass igloos on the observation deck for all-night views of the spectacular scenery. —Kristen E. Pope, Travel + Leisure, 29 Dec. 2025

Groups of families and friends can rent out igloos with fire pits, s’mores, charcuterie, wine and family dinners. —Abby Hamblin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Dec. 2025

Guests have their choice of five saunas, including a unique frozen igloo sauna only available in winter (from $111). —Jen Murphy, Outside, 20 Dec. 2025

In addition to the igloos built by some Inuit in the Arctic, people have lived in ice caves and other shelters that offer warmth, stability and protection from the weather. —Claire Cameron, Scientific American, 18 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Inuit iglu house

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

igloo

noun

ig·​loo ˈig-lü 

plural igloos

: an Inuit house usually made of wood, sod, or stone when permanent or of blocks of snow or ice in the form of a dome when built for temporary use