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

Poor insulation likely caused hesperornithiforms and enantiornithines to go extinct. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 10 Sep. 2026

The sound system has been simplified in the name of weight, the rear seats and acoustic insulation have been removed, and the deletion of drive modes and assistance systems reduced the number of controls on the steering wheel. — Joel Feder, The Drive, 10 Sep. 2026

Tucson and Pima County, along with many nonprofits, have programs to help residents upgrade their home's insulation, electrical systems, and heating and cooling systems. — Alejandra Borunda, NPR, 7 Sep. 2026

Leaving the old stems intact during winter affords some insulation for the crown. — David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 6 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