Linoleum Meaning
/lɪˈnəʊli.əm/Definition, CEFR level B2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounAn inexpensive waterproof covering used especially for floors, made from solidified linseed oil over a burlap or canvas backing, or from its modern replacement, polyvinyl chloride.
Sentence Examples
A linoleum floor was very popular in postwar America.
Tom slipped on the linoleum floor.
CEFR Practice Quiz
They cleaned the kitchen floor, but the old ____ was cracked and worn.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
They decided to install some new ____ flooring in the kitchen because it is very durable and easy to clean.
Word Origin & History
From Latin līnum (“flax”) + oleum (“oil”). Coined by English manufacturer and inventor Frederick Walton c. 1864 and used as a trade name but never registered as a trademark. It was the first product whose name was ruled to be genericized.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"The house seemed unfamiliar in the dark stormy light; the red and purple glass of the front door made livid bruises on the linoleum; the green chenille curtain was like a veil of seaweed."
— 1929, M. Barnard Eldershaw, A House is Built, Chapter VII, Section vi:
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CEFR Practice Quiz
They cleaned the kitchen floor, but the old ____ was cracked and worn.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
They decided to install some new ____ flooring in the kitchen because it is very durable and easy to clean.