tarpaulin

noun tar·pau·lin \tär-ˈpȯ-lən, ˈtär-pə-; ÷tär-ˈpōl-yən\

: a large piece of waterproof material (such as plastic or canvas) that is used to cover things and keep them dry

Full Definition of TARPAULIN

: a piece of material (as durable plastic) used for protecting exposed objects or areas

: sailor

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probably from ¹tar + -palling, -pauling (from pall)

First Known Use: 1605

TARPAULIN Defined for Kids

noun tar·pau·lin \tär-ˈpȯ-lən, ˈtär-pə-lən\

: a sheet of waterproof canvas

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