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

The acquisition puts the technology under Parkdale’s ownership as the company seeks applications in industrial and hygiene nonwovens, geotextiles, filtration, insulation and furnishings. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 2 Oct. 2026

By then, the decision has already been made for them, and made expensively, because water intrusion means the project now includes decking, insulation and drywall, not just shingles. — Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 1 Oct. 2026

The solution was layers of insulation, drywall and thick concrete to absorb sounds from vehicles running below, which the builders believe will keep the stages free of outside noise or vibrations. — Roger Vincent, Los Angeles Times, 30 Sep. 2026

The homes incorporate energy-efficient systems such as solar panels with battery storage, EV chargers, high-performance insulation and more, city officials said. — Addison Wright, Chicago Tribune, 28 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