insulator
insulator Lexical Profile
insulator Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A substance or material that does not readily allow the passage of heat, sound, or electricity.
"Rubber is widely used as an electrical insulator to protect workers from high-voltage currents."
A block or fitting of glass, porcelain, or other nonconducting material used to support and separate electrical wires on utility poles and transmission towers.
"The lineman replaced the cracked ceramic insulator at the top of the utility pole."
A tradesperson who installs thermal or acoustic insulating materials in buildings, pipes, or industrial equipment.
"The construction crew hired an experienced insulator to wrap the steam pipes in the basement."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the mid-18th century by early electrical researchers from the verb "insulate," which ultimately derives from the Latin "insula" (meaning "island"), reflecting the idea of isolating an object so electrical charge cannot escape.