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The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

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tarpaulin

IPA:

How to pronounce tarpaulin (audio)

Dictionary definition of tarpaulin

A heavy-duty, waterproof material, typically made of cloth, canvas, or plastic, that is used to protect objects from moisture, sunlight, or other elements.
"We used a tarpaulin to cover our camping gear and keep it dry overnight."

Detailed meaning of tarpaulin

It is commonly used as a covering or shelter in various settings. Tarpaulins are known for their durability and resistance to water, making them ideal for outdoor purposes. They are often employed to cover goods during transportation, to provide temporary roofing or makeshift shelters, or as ground covers during camping or construction projects. Tarpaulins come in various sizes, colors, and thicknesses, allowing for versatility in their applications. Their sturdy nature makes them reliable for protecting items or creating barriers against adverse weather conditions, making them an essential item in many industries and outdoor activities.

Example sentences containing tarpaulin

1. The workers spread a tarpaulin over the fragile equipment to shield it from rain.
2. The truck driver secured the load with tarpaulins to prevent any items from falling off during transit.
3. The construction crew erected a tarpaulin as a temporary roof to protect the building site from the elements.
4. The farmers covered their crops with tarpaulins to shield them from frost.
5. During the outdoor event, a tarpaulin was set up as a shelter to provide shade for the attendees.
6. The sailors used a tarpaulin to patch a hole in the sail during the storm.

History and etymology of tarpaulin

The noun 'tarpaulin' has a fascinating etymology that reflects its practical purpose. It originates from the combination of two Hindi words: 'tatt,' which means 'strong,' and 'pall,' which means 'protective covering.' These words were adopted by English sailors during the colonial era when they encountered and utilized the robust, waterproof covers made of cloth or canvas used in India. This etymology perfectly captures the essence of 'tarpaulin' as a heavy-duty, waterproof material employed to protect objects from the elements, highlighting its historical connection to trade and maritime activities. 'Tarpaulin' continues to be an essential tool for safeguarding goods and materials from moisture, sunlight, and adverse weather conditions.

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Further usage examples of tarpaulin

1. The painters spread a tarpaulin on the floor to protect it from paint spills.
2. The truck bed was lined with a tarpaulin to prevent the cargo from getting wet during transportation.
3. The homeless man used a tarpaulin as a makeshift tent to shield himself from the cold.
4. The gardeners covered the flower beds with tarpaulins to shield the plants from heavy rainfall.
5. The construction workers wrapped the scaffolding with tarpaulins to create a barrier against wind and debris.
6. They covered the boat with a tarpaulin to shield it from rain.
7. The campers used a tarpaulin as a makeshift rain shelter.
8. A tarpaulin protected the furniture during the move.
9. The construction site featured a massive tarpaulin for debris.
10. The gardeners spread a tarpaulin to deter weeds.
11. He patched the leaky roof with a sturdy tarpaulin.
12. The truck's cargo was secured under a tight tarpaulin.
13. The storm ripped the tarpaulin off the outdoor stage.
14. A tarpaulin served as a temporary roof for the damaged shed.
15. The artist painted a mural on a tarpaulin canvas.
16. The festival organizers hung tarpaulins to create shade.
17. They covered the picnic table with a tarpaulin for the party.
18. The boat was safely stored under a tarpaulin for the winter.
19. The market stalls were protected by colorful tarpaulins.
20. A tarpaulin served as a privacy screen at the construction site.
21. The farmer used a tarpaulin to collect fallen leaves.
22. The expedition carried a tarpaulin for unpredictable weather.
23. They spread a tarpaulin on the ground for a picnic.
24. The damaged roof was covered with a blue tarpaulin.
25. The soldiers used a tarpaulin as a makeshift shelter in the field.

SAT 16 (Scholastic Assessment Test), Cleanliness and Upkeep, Environmental Concerns and Ecology

awning,canopy,cover,guard,shelter,shroud

blanket,cloak,screen,sheet,tent,wrap

cover, expose, uncover, reveal

eb68db_7be2440df8bb4121a40973e5936e403d.mp3

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