noun
Uncommon
gravel
GRA-vuhl
Gravel (noun) means Small loose stones and pebbles, often used to surface roads, paths, or driveways. Example: “The car crunched over the gravel driveway.”
noun
1
Small loose stones and pebbles, often used to surface roads, paths, or driveways.
"The car crunched over the gravel driveway."
"They spread gravel along the path to stop it turning muddy."
"Gravel spilled from the lorry and scattered across the quiet lane."
How to use gravel
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSmall loose stones, commonly used to cover driveways, paths, and road surfaces.
Common pairings
gravel driveway
gravel road
a layer of gravel
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Word forms
- Plural
- gravels
- Third person singular
- gravels
- Past tense
- graveled, gravelled
Fill the gap
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The car crunched over the _____ driveway.
Etymology
From Old French gravele, a diminutive of grave ("gravel, seashore"), ultimately from a Celtic word for pebbles.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for gravel
See all rhymes for gravel →Frequently asked questions
What does “gravel” mean?
The word “gravel” means small loose stones and pebbles, often used to surface roads, paths, or driveways. In plain terms, small loose stones, commonly used to cover driveways, paths, and road surfaces.
How do you pronounce “gravel”?
“Gravel” is pronounced GRA-vuhl (/ˈɡɹævəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “gravel” in a sentence?
Here is “gravel” used in a sentence: “The car crunched over the gravel driveway.”
What part of speech is “gravel”?
“Gravel” is a noun.
Where does the word “gravel” come from?
The word “gravel” comes from Old French. From Old French gravele, a diminutive of grave ("gravel, seashore"), ultimately from a Celtic word for pebbles.
Is “gravel” a common word?
“Gravel” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between gravel and sand?
Gravel consists of small loose stones and pebbles, larger and coarser than sand, which is made of much finer mineral particles. Gravel is typically used for structural purposes like driveways and drainage, while sand is used for finer applications such as mixing concrete or filling play areas.
Why is gravel commonly used on driveways and paths?
Gravel is used on driveways and paths because it is inexpensive, allows water to drain through easily, and provides a stable surface without the cost of paving. Its loose stones also make it simple to install and maintain.
Is "gravel" a countable or uncountable noun?
"Gravel" is normally an uncountable noun, referring to a mass of small stones collectively rather than individual pieces. You would say "some gravel" or "a load of gravel" rather than "a gravel" or "gravels."
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