Gravel Definition, Usage and Practical Examples

Meaning 1：mixture of small stones (gravel)

gravel 🔊

/ˈɡrævəl/

Very small stones, often mixed with sand, used to make surfaces for driveways or garden paths.

Gravel material close-up showing texture of small stones on a pathway

mixture of small stones 🔊

➕

/ˈmɪkstʃər əv smɔːl stoʊnz/

Gravel is a material consisting of small stones, often mixed with sand, used for surfacing driveways, paths, and similar outdoor areas.

📁 Category：Objects & Materials 🔖 Level：Beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Old French 'gravelle', diminutive of 'grave' (sand, shore).

💡 Mnemonic

Imagine gravel as the crunchy stones underfoot on a garden path.

📖 Example

The path to the old cottage was made of loose gravel that crunched under our boots. 🔊 The path to the old cottage was made of loose gravel that crunched under our boots.

🔗 Collocations

gravel road – a road surfaced with gravel

gravel path – a walking path made of gravel

loose gravel – gravel that is not compacted and moves easily

🔄 Synonyms

pebbles (n.) – small, rounded stones often found on beaches or rivers

crushed stone (n.) – rock that has been mechanically broken into small pieces for construction

aggregate (n.) – a granular material like sand, gravel, or crushed stone used in building

🌱 Derivatives

gravelly (adj.) – having a rough texture like gravel; also describing a husky voice

📖 Cultural Story

Gravel originates from Old French 'gravelle', meaning small stones. It is commonly used in construction for paths and driveways, reflecting practical outdoor surfacing.