linoleum UK /lɪˈnəʊli.əm/US /lɪˈnoʊli.əm/ noun1 •An 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.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 formslinoleums