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Caulk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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caulk

[kôk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

construction

To fill or close seams or crevices in (a building, vehicle, etc.) with a waterproof filler, especially in preparation for painting or weatherproofing.

Synonyms

fill, plug, seal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
caulk

For sealing gaps or joints, especially in construction and home improvement projects, where a flexible material is needed.

  • He used caulk to seal the gap around the window frame
seal

Used when describing the act of closing something tightly to prevent passage of air or liquid, often to ensure protection or preservation.

  • They sealed the package to keep it safe from moisture
fill

Used in a general sense to describe the action of making something full, often applied to holes or empty spaces.

  • He used gravel to fill the hole in the garden
plug

Often used to describe stopping a flow or filling a hole with a solid object, can sometimes carry a negative connotation depending on the context.

  • She used a cork to plug the bottle

Examples of usage

  • The workers caulked the gaps around the windows to prevent drafts.
  • She caulked the bathtub to prevent water from leaking onto the floor.
Context #2 | Noun

construction

A waterproof filler and sealant, used in building work and repairs.

Synonyms

filler, putty, sealant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
caulk

Similar to 'caulk' as described above, typically interchangeable.

  • Make sure you caulk the edges to ensure no water leaks.
  • The contractor said we need to caulk the roof joints.
sealant

A variety of substances used for sealing surfaces to make them airtight or watertight, often used in bathrooms, kitchens, or exteriors.

  • The contractor used a sealant to protect the deck from water damage.
  • Apply sealant around the shower base to prevent leaks.
filler

Used for filling holes or imperfections, typically in wood, drywall, or other surfaces before painting or finishing.

  • We used a filler to cover the nail holes in the wooden shelf.
  • Before painting the wall, apply filler to the cracks for a smooth finish.
putty

A paste-like material used to seal or fill gaps, commonly in window panes, plumbing, and small repairs.

  • He applied putty to seal the hole in the water pipe.
  • The window needs a new layer of putty around the glass.

Examples of usage

  • The caulk around the bathtub needs to be replaced.
  • We need to buy some caulk for the windows before winter.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Construction

  • Caulk is essential in construction to seal joints and seams, enhancing energy efficiency.
  • Different types of caulk exist for specific uses, like silicone for wet areas and acrylic for interior jobs.
  • It helps prevent water damage by creating a waterproof barrier, crucial in bathrooms and kitchens.
  • Using caulk properly can extend the lifespan of structures by preventing mold and mildew.

Science

  • Caulking materials can be categorized as elastomeric, meaning they stretch, making them ideal for flexible joints.
  • The chemical composition often includes polymers, which help to improve adhesion and flexibility.
  • Some caulks are designed to be paintable, allowing for aesthetic finishes besides just functional sealing.
  • Environmental concerns have led to the development of low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) caulks to reduce indoor air pollution.

Pop Culture

  • Despite its mundane nature, caulk has appeared in various DIY shows emphasizing the importance of home repair.
  • The phrase 'caulk and trade' has been humorously used to describe the bonding between craftsmen in arts and repairs.
  • In certain films, caulk has been comedically portrayed as part of quirky home improvement mishaps.
  • Flipping houses on reality TV often involves generous amounts of caulk as part of the renovation process.

Origin of 'caulk'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'caulk' comes from the Middle English term 'calke', which meant to fill or stop.
  • It has roots in the Old Norse word 'kalka', which means to plug or stop a hole.
  • The transformation from Middle English to Modern English reflects the adaptation in building and ship-making.
  • The spelling has changed over time, but the function remains consistent across many languages.

The word 'caulk' originated from Middle English 'calken', which is derived from Old North French 'cauquer', meaning 'to tread down'. It was first used in the 14th century to refer to the process of driving oakum into the seams of wooden ships to make them watertight. Over time, the term expanded to include the use of various materials to seal gaps and joints in buildings and other structures.

See also: caulking.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,456, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.