insulation

[ɪn.səˈleɪ.ʃən]
nounfemininepl: insulações
isolamento
1. The action or process of insulating something or someone
The insulation of the building reduced heating costs significantly.
O isolamento do edifício reduziu significativamente os custos de aquecimento.
2. Material used for insulating, especially to prevent loss of heat or cold
We installed new fiberglass insulation in the attic.
Instalamos novo isolamento de fibra de vidro no sótão.
3. Protection from external influences or disturbances
The policy provided some insulation from market volatility.
A política proporcionou algum isolamento da volatilidade do mercado.
4. Electrical protection preventing the flow of electric current
The wire's insulation was damaged and needed replacement.
O isolamento do fio foi danificado e precisava ser substituído.
In Brazil, 'isolamento' is widely used in construction and energy efficiency discussions, particularly relevant given tropical climate concerns and rising energy costs. In the USA, insulation is a major concern in home improvement and energy efficiency programs. The term is also commonly used metaphorically in both cultures to describe protection from negative influences or isolation from external pressures.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
isolationprotectionsoundproofingthermal protectionshielding
Antonyms / Antônimos
exposureconductionpermeability

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
isolamento
Most common term used in construction, electrical, and general contexts
Brazil Technical
isolação
Used in electrical and technical contexts, slightly more formal
São Paulo
isolamento
Standard usage in industrial and construction sectors
Portugal
isolamento
Same as Brazilian Portuguese, but may also use 'isolante' for the material itself

Related Words

insulateinsulatorinsulatedthermalweatherproofingsoundproofing

Related Idioms & Phrases

insulation from reality
thermal insulation
sound insulation
economic insulation
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