slate
5 synonyms and 0 antonyms for slate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A fine-grained gray rock that splits easily into thin flat sheets, often used for roofing.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
How to use slate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French esclate, related to esclater ("to break, shatter"), ultimately from a Germanic root meaning "to split."
Full origin of slate →Frequently asked questions
What does “slate” mean?
The word “slate” means a fine-grained gray rock that splits easily into thin flat sheets, often used for roofing. In plain terms, the gray roofing rock, or figuratively, a planned list or schedule of things — also, in British English, to criticize harshly.
How do you pronounce “slate”?
“Slate” is pronounced slayt (/sleɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “slate” in a sentence?
Here is “slate” used in a sentence: “The old cottage still has its original slate roof.”
What part of speech is “slate”?
Depending on how it is used, “slate” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “slate” come from?
The word “slate” comes from Old French. From Old French esclate, related to esclater ("to break, shatter"), ultimately from a Germanic root meaning "to split.".
Is “slate” a common word?
“Slate” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “slate” have?
“Slate” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a fine-grained gray rock that splits easily into thin flat sheets, often used for roofing.
What is the difference between 'slate' as a rock and 'slate' as a list of candidates?
'Slate' as a rock refers to a fine-grained gray stone that splits into thin sheets, often used for roofing. 'Slate' as a list refers to a set of candidates for election or a planned schedule of activities, an unrelated figurative meaning.
What does it mean to 'slate' something in British English?
In British English, to 'slate' something means to criticize it harshly, as in 'critics slated the film.' This is an informal usage distinct from the sense of scheduling or planning something.
What does it mean when something is 'slated' to happen?
When something is 'slated' to happen, it means it has been scheduled or planned, as in 'the meeting is slated for Monday.' This usage comes from the verb sense of 'slate' meaning to schedule.