verb (used with object), in·su·lat·ed, in·su·lat·ing.
- to cover, line, or separate with a material that prevents or reduces the passage, transfer, or leakage of heat, electricity, or sound: to insulate an electric wire with a rubber sheath; to insulate a coat with down.
- to place in an isolated situation or condition; segregate.
verb (tr)
- to prevent or reduce the transmission of electricity, heat, or sound to or from (a body, device, or region) by surrounding with a nonconducting material
- to isolate or detach
v.1530s, “make into an island,” from Latin insulatus, from insula (see insular). Sense of “cause a person or thing to be detached from surroundings” is from 1785. Electrical/chemical sense of “block from electricity or heat” is from 1742. Related: Insulated; insulating.