Definition

A material that does not allow electricity, heat, or sound to pass through easily.

Example

Rubber is a common nonconductor used in electrical insulation.

Conversation

Did you know that rubber is a great nonconductor of electricity?

Really? I had no idea it could block electricity like that.

Yeah, that's why they use it for insulation on wires.

That makes total sense! It's cool how materials have such different properties.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonconductor → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "conductor" (from Latin "conducere", meaning to lead together). The word "nonconductor" refers to a material that does not lead electricity or heat, hence, it does not conduct.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') being combined with 'leading' ('conducere') to remember that a nonconductor is something that does not lead electricity or heat.

Visually Confused Words