insulator

[in-suh-ley-ter, ins-yuh-]

noun

1. Electricity.

   1. a material of such low conductivity that the flow of current through it is negligible.

   2. insulating material, often glass or porcelain, in a unit form designed so as to support a charged conductor and electrically isolate it.

2. a person or thing that insulates.

insulator

/ ˈɪnsjʊˌleɪtə /

noun

1. any material or device that insulates, esp a material with a very low electrical conductivity or thermal conductivity or something made of such a material

insulator

1. A material or an object that does not easily allow heat, electricity, light, or sound to pass through it. Air, cloth and rubber are good electrical insulators; feathers and wool make good thermal insulators.

2. Compare conductor

insulator

1. A material that does not easily transmit energy, such as electric current (see also current) or heat. Materials such as wood, plastic, and ceramics are insulators. Fiberglass is an example of a heat insulator. (Compare conductor.)

Other Word Forms

• noninsulator noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of insulator¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; insulate + -or ²

Example Sentences

Semiconductors, as the name suggests, can partially conduct electricity - alternating between doing so and acting as an insulator.

From BBC

But on Jan. 17, attorneys representing Edison sent a letter to plaintiffs notifying them workers would be cleaning insulators in their towers to remove fire retardant.

From Los Angeles Times

Industry experts have told the BBC spray foam is an effective insulator if fitted properly, and urgent action is needed to stop panicked homeowners needlessly turning to "cowboy" removal companies.

From BBC

It is a better thermal insulator and was previously sold to stabilise failing roofs.

From BBC

Engineers in Australia have found a new way to make power-pole insulators resistant to fire and electrical sparking, promising to prevent dangerous pole-top fires and reduce blackouts.

From Science Daily