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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Now that beta test vehicles have been created, the company will use those to validate ride quality, handling, braking, thermodynamics, aerodynamics and sound insulation calibrations and engineering. Eileen Falkenberg-Hull, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Sep. 2025 It’s also filled with polyester material for extra insulation between its 100 percent cotton fabric on both sides. Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 3 Sep. 2025 During the period, DyStar achieved a 44 percent reduction in emission intensity through several initiatives ranging from LED lighting upgrades and better equipment insulation to moving high-energy production to more energy-efficient units in other countries. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 2 Sep. 2025 Solitary bees are well protected in their underground or cavity nest, but leaf litter may provide some insulation for their ground nests. Special To The Denver Post, Denver Post, 31 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for insulation

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Time Traveler
The first known use of insulation was in 1798

Cite this Entry

“Insulation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insulation. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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!