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Added 9 October 2026

insulate

/ˈɪnsjʊleɪt/ verb

Latin root: īnsula First recorded: 16th century Wiktionary

verb Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about insulate at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

To separate, detach, or isolate.
To separate a body or material from others, e.g. by non-conductors to prevent the transfer of electricity, heat, etc.
Ceramic can be used to insulate power lines.

adjective

Of pollen or spores, with superficial ornamentation grouped in circular or polygonal areas separated by grooves.

Origin

From Latin īnsula (“isle, island”) + -ate (verb-forming suffix) or from Late Latin īnsulātus (“made an island”), see etymology at -ate. First attested in the 16th century; the general verb īnsulō (“insulate”) is attested only in New Latin and postdates the English term, but influence from an otherwise unattested Medieval Latin counterpart cannot be ruled out. Piecewise doublet of isolate.

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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