insulate
insulate Lexical Profile
insulate Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To cover, line, or surround something with a non-conducting material in order to prevent the passage or loss of heat, electricity, or sound.
"The homeowners decided to insulate the attic with fiberglass to reduce their winter heating bills."
To protect, shield, or detach a person, group, or institution from unpleasant external influences, experiences, or risks.
"Diversifying your investment portfolio can help insulate your savings from sudden market downturns."
Word Nuance & Usage
While 'insulate' and 'isolate' share the same Latin root meaning 'island', 'insulate' implies shielding or protecting something from external effects (or preventing heat/electricity loss), whereas 'isolate' emphasizes separating something or someone from others.
• Rhymes for insulate
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 16th century from Late Latin 'insulatus', the past participle of 'insulare' ('to make into an island'), from Latin 'insula' ('island'). The sense of blocking heat or electricity developed in the 18th century.