insulate

[ in-suh-leyt, ins-yuh- ]

verb (used with object)

, in·su·lat·ed, in·su·lat·ing.

1. to cover, line, or separate with a material that prevents or reduces the passage, transfer, or leakage of heat, electricity, or sound:

   to insulate an electric wire with a rubber sheath; to insulate a coat with down.

2. to place in an isolated situation or condition; segregate.

insulate

/ ˈɪnsjʊˌleɪt /

verb

1. to prevent or reduce the transmission of electricity, heat, or sound to or from (a body, device, or region) by surrounding with a nonconducting material
2. to isolate or detach

Other Words From

• non·insu·lating adjective
• pre·insu·late verb (used with object) preinsulated preinsulating
• re·insu·late verb (used with object) reinsulated reinsulating
• super·insu·lated adjective
• un·insu·lated adjective
• well-insu·lated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of insulate¹

First recorded in 1530–40, insulate is from the Latin word insulātus made into an island. See insula, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of insulate¹

C16: from Late Latin insulātus: made into an island

Related Words

• cushion
• isolate
• seclude
• sequester
• shield
• wrap