Definition
A large, flexible sheet of waterproof material — traditionally heavy canvas treated with tar or oil, now commonly woven plastic or coated synthetic fabric — used to cover and protect aircraft, equipment, or cargo from rain, sun, dust, and wind.
Plain English
A tough waterproof sheet, often called a 'tarp,' thrown over something to keep it dry and protected from the weather.
Context Anchor
Seen around parked aircraft, maintenance areas, tiedown areas, and cargo or baggage handling.
Derivation
From 'tar' plus 'palling' (an old word for a covering or cloth). Originally a sail or canvas sheet coated with tar to make it waterproof. The name stuck even though modern tarpaulins are usually plastic.
Why Pilots Care
Prevents corrosion, fabric damage, and contamination on aircraft left outside.
Intuition Check
Tarpaulin does not mean any casual cover or tarp; it specifically means heavy waterproof material intended for long-term weather protection.
Example Sentence 1
Before leaving the aircraft overnight, the pilot fitted a tarpaulin over the cockpit to keep rain off the instruments.
Example Sentence 2
During the annual inspection the mechanic used a tarpaulin to keep dust off the open cowling.