English Reference
Noun

insulator

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈɪnsəˌɫeɪtɝ/ UK /ˈɪnsuːlˌeɪtɐ/ in·su·la·tor UK spelling insulator's, insulator's

n.a material that stops heat, electricity, or sound from moving through it. You use it to keep things warm or to protect you from electric shocks.

n.a material that resists the flow of heat, electricity, or sound. Often used in the context of thermal or electrical safety.


SIMPLE

Wool is a good insulator for keeping you warm.

CONTEXTUAL

The electrician wore rubber gloves because rubber is an excellent insulator that prevents shocks.

COMPLEX

In high-voltage power lines, ceramic insulators are used to prevent the current from leaking into the surrounding air or the metal towers that support the cables.


From insulate + -or.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated