Definition

A layer of material, often wood or fiber, that is applied to the outside of a building's structure to provide support and a base for weatherproofing.

Example

The contractor installed the sheathing before adding the exterior siding to the house.

Conversation

I saw your house under construction yesterday, it looks great!

Thanks! We're just finishing up the sheathing on the walls.

That’s cool! I didn’t realize how important sheathing is for insulation.

Yeah, it really helps keep the house warm during winter.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sheathing → It is formed from "sheath" (from Old English *sceath*, meaning a covering or case) and "-ing" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating an action or resulting state). The word "sheathing" refers to the action or state of covering something with a sheath or protective layer.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'sheath' as a protective covering, and remember that 'sheathing' means the process of putting on that covering.

Visually Confused Words