linoleum

noun

li·​no·​leum lə-ˈnō-lē-əm 

-ˈnōl-yəm

often attributive

1

: a floor covering made by laying on a burlap or canvas backing a mixture of solidified linseed oil with gums, cork dust or wood flour or both, and usually pigments

2

: a material similar to linoleum

Examples of linoleum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Formica countertops and linoleum flooring might be a thing of the past (for the better), but as a space that is so essential to Southern culture, the kitchen has—and always will—remain the heart of the home, no matter what cabinetry paint colors or kitchen islands trend is in. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 27 Oct. 2024

Etch away the skin with a linoleum cutter, but be careful not to completely pierce through the rind. —Ella Field, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Oct. 2024

The same method as cleaning linoleum works for buffing scratches or scuffs out of patent leather, soft white leather, sneaker midsoles, or vinyl. —Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 5 Oct. 2024

Wood, stone, tile and linoleum floors were laid in angular patterns such as chevron, herringbone, checkered and parquet. —Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin linum flax + oleum oil — more at oil

First Known Use

1878, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

linoleum

noun

li·​no·​leum lə-ˈnō-lē-əm 

-ˈnōl-yəm

: a floor covering with a canvas back and a surface of hardened linseed oil and usually cork dust