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Insulate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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insulate

[หˆษชn.sษ™.leษชt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

thermal protection

To insulate means to protect something from heat, sound, or electricity. This process involves adding material or covering surfaces in order to prevent the passage of energy in various forms. Insulation is crucial in construction and manufacturing for maintaining temperature and reducing energy costs. In a broader sense, it can also refer to the separation of people or groups from each other, often leading to social or psychological effects.

Synonyms

buffer, protect, shield.

Examples of usage

  • We need to insulate the house to reduce energy bills.
  • The pipes were insulated to prevent freezing during the winter.
  • Insulating the walls can improve the comfort of your home.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Insulation materials can include fiberglass, foam, and even recycled paper, each chosen for specific thermal properties.
  • In physics, insulating materials are crucial for managing heat transfer, helping to maintain energy efficiency.
  • Some animals, like polar bears, naturally insulate themselves with thick layers of blubber and fur to survive cold climates.

Architecture

  • Proper insulation in buildings can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs, making homes more energy-efficient.
  • Green buildings often incorporate natural materials for insulation, promoting sustainability.
  • Architects utilize various insulating techniques to adapt structures to different climates around the world.

Pop Culture

  • The term is often used in product marketing; for example, 'insulated bottles' became trendy for keeping beverages hot or cold for hours.
  • Movies sometimes feature characters using insulation to create safe spaces, symbolizing protection and comfort.

Everyday Life

  • Many household items, like thermal flasks and coolers, are designed with insulation to enhance their performance.
  • People often add insulation to their homes as a DIY project to improve comfort while saving on energy bills.

Origin of 'insulate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'insulatus,' meaning 'to make an island,' referring to being separated or protected.
  • It was first used in English in the late 19th century, originally in the context of electrical insulation.

The word 'insulate' originates from the Latin term 'insulatus', which means 'made into an island'. The Latin root 'insula' translates to 'island', indicating a sense of separation. The term evolved in the late 19th century to specifically refer to the act of isolating materials for the purpose of protection against heat, sound, or electricity. The shift in meaning reflects the development of building and engineering practices that prioritize energy efficiency and safety. As technology advanced, the concept of insulation expanded to various fields such as electrical engineering, architecture, and even social sciences. Today, insulation is a key consideration in design and construction, impacting everything from energy consumption to environmental sustainability.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,152, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.