Words / C1

INS-yool-ayt/ˈɪnsjuleɪt/

To insulate is to protect from heat, cold, or noise; also to protect from unwelcome influence: insulate a hall, insulate a board from lobbying. Protect (already in the dictionary) is everyday; a scented candle is décor, not an air-change log.

Meaning

To protect from heat, cold, or noise; also to protect from unwelcome influence.

Examples

• “Insulate the hall to the stated rate; a scented candle is not a log.”
• “Protect is already in this course. Shield is a cousin. A candle is décor. A rate is a certificate. Meet the rate; then scent the foyer if you still wish.”

Good to know

Protect from heat, noise, or influence. Everyday: protect (already in the dictionary). A candle ≠ an air-change log.

Near in meaning

protect, shield, lag

New