English Reference

Word

fiberglass

Phoneticsfiber·glass

/ˈfaɪbɝˌɡɫæs/

UK spelling · fibreglass

Uncountable noun Technology

Definition

n. a strong, light material made from tiny threads of glass. It is often used to build things like boats, cars, and insulation for houses.

n. a reinforced plastic material composed of glass fibres embedded in a resin matrix. Often used for its high strength-to-weight ratio and thermal insulation properties.

Examples

“The boat has a strong fiberglass hull.”

“Workers wore protective masks while installing fiberglass insulation in the attic to avoid breathing in the tiny glass particles.”

“Modern aerospace engineering frequently utilizes fiberglass and other composite materials to reduce aircraft weight while maintaining the structural integrity required for high-altitude flight.”

Examples

simple

“The boat has a strong fiberglass hull.”

contextual

“Workers wore protective masks while installing fiberglass insulation in the attic to avoid breathing in the tiny glass particles.”

complex

“Modern aerospace engineering frequently utilizes fiberglass and other composite materials to reduce aircraft weight while maintaining the structural integrity required for high-altitude flight.”

Real-World Examples

“In granting permission, Telford and Wrekin planners said the curved gloss white fibreglass dome used to house the telescope would be "somewhat unusual" but would add "some visual interest to the site.”
BBC News 3 Oct 2026
“In comparison, fibreglass and plastic are light, durable and absorb vibrations well.”
BBC Gardeners World Magazine 22 Jan 2026
“Though only as strong as fiberglass, human bone is more flexible than steel.”
snexplores.org 27 Mar 2024

Word family

NOUN

fiberglass(B2)

ADJECTIVE

Domain

Technology

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference