: a measure of resistance to the flow of heat through a given thickness of a material (such as insulation) with higher numbers indicating better insulating properties compare u-value

Examples of R-value in a Sentence

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The walls have a thermal resistance or R-value of 80, so the homeowner benefits from energy savings on top of cost savings. Jennifer Castenson, Forbes, 15 Dec. 2024 The Tensor All-Season has an R-value of 5.4 and weighs just 18.2 ounces. Scott Gilbertson, WIRED, 29 Nov. 2024 Pairing your sleeping bag with a sleeping pad that has sufficient insulation (measured as the R-value) is essential to getting the maximum warmth and performance from a bag. Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 4 Nov. 2024 And, with an R-value of 7.0 (which is a measurement of the pad’s insulation to protect you from the cold ground below), this pad offers adequate warmth for year-round camping. Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 25 Sep. 2024 Its thickened exterior walls, triple-glazed windows, and minimal heating system give it an impressive R-value of over 40, significantly boosting energy efficiency. New Atlas, 18 Sep. 2024 Though pricey, this super-warm pad from NEMO gives winter campers a good night’s sleep with a toasty 8.5 R-value, one of the best in its class. Emily Pennington, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 Nov. 2023 This insulation provides the highest R-value per inch of thickness, ensuring significantly lower heating and cooling costs. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 16 Jan. 2024 For kids, aim for an R-value of at least 2, which should keep them comfortable down to 30-degree Fahrenheit temperatures at night. Mandy Harris, Travel + Leisure, 18 Oct. 2023

Word History

Etymology

probably from thermal resistance

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of R-value was in 1948

Dictionary Entries Near R-value

Cite this Entry

“R-value.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/R-value. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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