Definition

A material or device that prevents the transfer of heat, electricity, or sound.

Example

The electrician used an insulator to keep the wires safe from heat.

Conversation

I read that using the right insulator can make a big difference in energy efficiency.

Really? I never thought about that before.

Yeah, it helps keep the heat from escaping in winter.

I should look into getting better insulators for my home.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Insulator → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "salare" (from Latin, meaning to jump or leap) combined with the suffix "-tor" (meaning one who). The word "insulator" refers to a material that does not allow electricity or heat to jump through it, hence it prevents the flow of energy.

Memory Tip

Think of something that prevents energy from 'jumping' ('salare') through it — 'in-' means not, so an insulator is something that does not allow energy to leap through.

Visually Confused Words