Tarpaulin is a waterproof material made from a combination of tarp and CANVAS. It is commonly used as a protective covering for outdoor items such as boats, cars, and furniture. Tarpaulin is also used in construction to cover roofs and walls, and in the military to create temporary shelters. The term 'tarpaulin' is derived from the combination of two words: tarp, which is a heavy-duty plastic sheeting, and CANVAS, which is a strong, durable fabric.