Definition of the word insulated

The word "insulated" has its roots in the 17th century. It comes from the Latin words "insula" meaning "island" and "are" meaning "to make". In the early days of science and experimentation, the concept of insulation referred to creating a barrier or "island" around an object or substance to protect it from external influences or disturbances. This could be by enclosing it in a material that prevented heat, light, or sound from escaping or entering. Over time, the meaning of "insulated" expanded to include other forms of isolation, such as electrical insulation to prevent the transmission of electricity, or thermal insulation to keep objects warm or cool. Today, "insulated" is used in a wide range of contexts, from construction and materials science to medicine and everyday life. Despite its evolution, the core idea of creating a barrier or "island" remains at the heart of the word's meaning.