# insulating

/ˈɪnsəˌɫeɪtɪŋ/ (US) · /ˈɪnsjʊlˌeɪtɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/insulating
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

describing a material that stops heat, sound, or electricity from passing through. You use this to talk about things that keep a house warm or protect you from electric shocks.

For teachers: referring to a substance or material that prevents or reduces the transmission of heat, sound, or electricity. Often used attributively to describe protective layers or building materials.

## Examples

- The workers are putting insulating foam in the walls.
- You should wear insulating gloves when working with live electrical wires to prevent a dangerous shock.
- Modern construction relies heavily on high-performance insulating materials to maintain internal temperatures and reduce the overall carbon footprint of the building.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.