insulation

noun

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

Synonyms of insulation

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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.
Airflow, duct design, insulation, air leakage and commissioning all influence how efficiently that equipment performs. — Brynn Cooksey, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026 Polyvinyl chloride, better known as PVC, is most frequently found in pipes, credit cards, plastic bottles, electrical cable insulation, and other everyday items. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 6 Aug. 2026 DuPont's Diversified Industrials segment is home to sales of building materials such as Tyvek HomeWrap, Styrofoam insulation, and Corian, a material used for countertops, sinks and walls. — Kevin Stankiewicz, CNBC, 4 Aug. 2026 During a storm, water can enter the basement even through these small openings, causing extensive damage to drywall, flooring, and insulation. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 3 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for insulation

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Browse Nearby Words

insulating varnish
insulation
insulation resistance
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Cite this Entry

“Insulation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insulation. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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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
ˈin(t)-sə-ˌlāt How to pronounce insulation (audio)
transitive verb
insulated; insulating

More from Merriam-Webster on insulation

Nglish: Translation of insulation for Spanish Speakers

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