# tarp

/ˈtɑɹp/ (US) · /tˈɑːp/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tarp
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a heavy, waterproof cloth used to cover things like cars, boats, or buildings to keep them dry. It is often used when you need a quick and strong cover for a large area.

For teachers: a heavy, waterproof fabric, typically made of polyethylene or canvas, used for covering or protecting objects from the weather.

## Examples

- I used a tarp to cover the car during the storm.
- The construction workers spread a large tarp over the roof to prevent rain from damaging the new tiles.
- While temporary, the tarp provided sufficient protection for the outdoor equipment until the permanent canopy could be installed during the following week.

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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.