linoleum

noun

li·​no·​leum lə-ˈnō-lē-əm 

-ˈnōl-yəm

often attributive

1

: a floor covering made by laying on a burlap or canvas backing a mixture of solidified linseed oil with gums, cork dust or wood flour or both, and usually pigments

2

: a material similar to linoleum

Examples of linoleum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Etch away the skin with a linoleum cutter, but be careful not to completely pierce through the rind. —Ella Field, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Oct. 2024

The same method as cleaning linoleum works for buffing scratches or scuffs out of patent leather, soft white leather, sneaker midsoles, or vinyl. —Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 5 Oct. 2024

Wood, stone, tile and linoleum floors were laid in angular patterns such as chevron, herringbone, checkered and parquet. —Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Sep. 2024

The Swiffer Sweeper is perfect for picking up dust, dirt, and pet hair from hardwood, linoleum, or tile floors. —Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 4 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin linum flax + oleum oil — more at oil

First Known Use

1878, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

linoleum

noun

li·​no·​leum lə-ˈnō-lē-əm 

-ˈnōl-yəm

: a floor covering with a canvas back and a surface of hardened linseed oil and usually cork dust