insulation

noun

in·​su·​la·​tion ˌin(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce insulation (audio)
1
: material used in insulating
2
a
: the state of being insulated
b
: the action of insulating

Example Sentences

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 cellular shades are also specifically designed to absorb sound, block UV rays, and provide superior insulation from heat loss in the winter. Rachel Klein, Popular Mechanics, 27 Feb. 2023 This means down feels extremely soft and fluffy because of its airy fibers, providing excellent insulation, but can also be expensive. Emma Seymour, Good Housekeeping, 27 Feb. 2023 The Amazon Basics Darkening curtains also provide energy-saving insulation for your rooms throughout the year, blocking your heat from escaping out the window during the winter months and locking precious AC indoors during the height of summer. Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Feb. 2023 Made of 62 percent wool, 22 percent nylon, 15 percent bison down, and 1 percent spandex, the Ultimate Bison Sock provides advanced insulation, ribbing for arch support, and plush cushioning. Leslie Hsu Oh, Travel + Leisure, 27 Jan. 2023 After all, 52 is seven degrees above the average high for Jan. 7, and in the right circumstances, those seven degrees can provide adequate insulation from the real rigors of the cold season. Martin Weil, Washington Post, 8 Jan. 2023 These midweight socks provide enough insulation for most winter climates, but have multi-zone mesh panels to maximize breathability and minimize sweat and chafing. Todd Plummer, Robb Report, 27 Dec. 2022 Bipartisan support would also provide political insulation when someone inevitably commits a crime after being released following an arrest. Kelan Lyons, Hartford Courant, 7 Aug. 2022 Their thick walls provide natural insulation from the sun, while the limited number of small windows helps the interior stay cool. Jori Lewis, The Atlantic, 5 July 2022 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'insulation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Time Traveler
The first known use of insulation was in 1798

Dictionary Entries Near insulation

Cite this Entry

“Insulation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insulation. Accessed 31 Mar. 2023.

Kids Definition

insulation

noun
in·​su·​la·​tion ˌin(t)-sə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce insulation (audio)
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 How to pronounce insulation (audio)
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 transitive verb
insulated; insulating

More from Merriam-Webster on insulation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!


Challenging Standardized Test Words, Vol. 2

  • a pencil broken in half on top of a test answer sheet
  • The business’s new computer system proved not to be a panacea.
Spell It

Hear a word and type it out. How many can you get right?

TAKE THE QUIZ
Solve today's spelling word game by finding as many words as you can with using just 7 letters. Longer words score more points.

Can you make 12 words with 7 letters?

PLAY