Isolator Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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isolator

[ˈaɪ·səˌleɪ·tər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

electrical

A device or material that prevents the flow of electricity, heat, or sound.

Synonyms

blocker, insulator, separator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
isolator	An isolator is used to describe something or someone that creates a barrier to separate or block off different parts or elements, often in a technical or medical context. The scientist used an isolator to prevent contamination in the lab. The isolator in the electrical circuit ensures safety by disconnecting the power.
insulator	An insulator is utilized to prevent the transfer of electricity, heat, or sound, generally in scientific, engineering, or construction settings. Rubber is a well-known insulator commonly used in electrical applications. Good door insulation acts as an insulator to keep the house warm.
blocker	A blocker refers to something that stops or hinders progress, often used in sports, medical, or technological contexts. It sometimes carries a negative connotation. The defender acted as an effective blocker against the opponent's moves. Certain medications act as blockers to prevent high blood pressure.
separator	A separator is used to divide or keep things apart, often in industrial and technical situations. The oil-water separator ensures that wastewater is properly treated. The layout of the factory includes separators to keep different production lines distinct.

Examples of usage

The isolator is used to disconnect a circuit from the power supply.
This isolator is made of high-quality insulating material.
The isolator should be placed near the power source for safety reasons.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

biology

An organism that is confined to a specific area, usually an island, and has limited interaction with other species.

Synonyms

endemic species, restricted organism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
isolator	This term is typically used in scientific or medical contexts to describe a device or environment where something is kept separate from contaminants or external elements. The laboratory uses an isolator to prevent the contamination of samples. Patients with highly infectious diseases are kept in an isolator to prevent the spread of the illness.
endemic species	This phrase is used in environmental and ecological contexts to refer to a species that is native to a specific geographic area and found nowhere else. The koala is an endemic species of Australia. Conservation efforts are critical for protecting endemic species in the Galapagos Islands.
restricted organism	Used in regulatory, legal, or environmental contexts to describe an organism whose distribution or use is controlled by regulations due to potential harm or risk it might pose. Importing restricted organisms requires special permits and compliance with quarantine regulations. Research on genetically modified crops often involves working with restricted organisms.

Word

Description / Examples

isolator

This term is typically used in scientific or medical contexts to describe a device or environment where something is kept separate from contaminants or external elements.

The laboratory uses an isolator to prevent the contamination of samples.
Patients with highly infectious diseases are kept in an isolator to prevent the spread of the illness.

endemic species

This phrase is used in environmental and ecological contexts to refer to a species that is native to a specific geographic area and found nowhere else.

The koala is an endemic species of Australia.
Conservation efforts are critical for protecting endemic species in the Galapagos Islands.

restricted organism

Used in regulatory, legal, or environmental contexts to describe an organism whose distribution or use is controlled by regulations due to potential harm or risk it might pose.

Importing restricted organisms requires special permits and compliance with quarantine regulations.
Research on genetically modified crops often involves working with restricted organisms.

Examples of usage

The Galapagos Islands are home to many unique isolator species.
The isolator population has evolved independently from other species.
Isolator species are at risk of extinction due to their limited gene pool.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

In electrical engineering, isolators are crucial for preventing unwanted current flow, protecting devices from damage.
Sound isolators are used in audio equipment to prevent outside noise from interfering with sound quality – like a cozy blanket around a baby.

Pop Culture

In movies, 'isolator' often refers to characters or situations that create tension, like a hero trapped in an isolated environment.
Video games often feature isolator themes, where players must navigate through levels while avoiding traps or barriers.

Psychology

Isolation can have profound psychological effects, leading to feelings of loneliness or depression when it's unwanted.
Conversely, positive isolation, often used in meditation, can lead to self-discovery and personal growth.

Engineering

In the construction of buildings, isolators can be part of base isolation systems that protect structures from earthquakes.
Vibration isolators reduce the transmission of vibrations from machinery to sensitive structures, ensuring stability.

Origin of 'isolator'

Main points about word origin

The term comes from the Latin root 'insula', meaning island, which indicates something that separates.
In the mid-19th century, the term began being used in various technical fields, emphasizing its specialized function.

The word 'isolator' originated from the Latin word 'insula', meaning island. It was first used in the mid-19th century to describe a device that isolates or separates something from its surroundings. Over time, the term has been adopted in various fields, including electrical engineering and biology, to refer to objects or organisms that are separated or confined in some way.

See also: isolated, isolating, isolation.