rhizoverbBeta
DictionarytarpProtective covering
noun / verb

tarp

TARP/tɑrp/

A waterproof sheet used to protect things, or to cover things with one.

A blue tarp keeps the firewood dry during heavy rain.

A blue waterproof tarp secured over a small stack of firewood, with water beading on its surface and dry log ends visible beneath the protected edge.
Etymology
tarpEnglishwaterproof canvas

A tarp takes its name from tarpaulin, originally waterproof canvas. The longer word may refer to a heavy cloth covering coated with tar, but that explanation is conjectural.

In context

NDSUExtension8:50
when there's a danger of a hard Frost we need to cover our tender vegetables and what do we cover them with and some people use blankets some people use tarp
Extending the Growing Season and Putting the Garden to Bed

More examples

  • We tarp the hay before the storm arrives.
  • They tarped the damaged roof until repairs could begin.
  • Keep a few spare tarps in the garage.

Forms

tarp · tarps · tarped · tarping

Similar words

tarpaulin
The full form of tarp, with the same meaning.
cover
A broader term that does not imply waterproof material.
sheet
Refers to thin material, not necessarily waterproof or protective.