rocky
Rocky (adj) means Covered with or made up of rocks. Example: “The trail became steep and rocky near the summit.”
How to use rocky
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCovered in rocks, or (figuratively) unstable, troubled, or shaky.
Word forms
rockier comparative, more rocky comparative, rockier comparative, more rocky comparative, rockier comparative, more rocky comparative, rockiest superlative, most rocky superlative, rockiest superlative, most rocky superlative, rockiest superlative, most rocky superlative
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The trail became steep and _____ near the summit.
Etymology
From Middle English rokki, built on "rock" plus the adjective suffix "-y."
Related words
Rhymes for rocky
See all rhymes for rocky →Frequently asked questions
What does “rocky” mean?
The word “rocky” means covered with or made up of rocks. In plain terms, covered in rocks, or (figuratively) unstable, troubled, or shaky.
How do you pronounce “rocky”?
“Rocky” is pronounced RO-kee (/ˈɹɑki/ in IPA).
How do you use “rocky” in a sentence?
Here is “rocky” used in a sentence: “The trail became steep and rocky near the summit.”
What part of speech is “rocky”?
“Rocky” is an adjective.
Where does the word “rocky” come from?
The word “rocky” comes from Middle English. From Middle English rokki, built on "rock" plus the adjective suffix "-y.".
Is “rocky” a common word?
“Rocky” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “rocky” have?
“Rocky” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: covered with or made up of rocks.
What is the difference between "rocky" and "stony"?
"Rocky" suggests ground covered with or made up of large rocks and boulders. "Stony" usually suggests smaller stones or pebbles, and can also describe a cold, unsympathetic manner.
Can "rocky" describe both places and situations?
Yes. Literally, "rocky" describes terrain covered with rocks, such as a rocky coastline. Figuratively, it describes a period, business, or relationship that is troubled and unstable, such as a rocky start.
What is the difference between "rocky" and "rough"?
Both can describe difficult periods, but "rough" stresses hardship and discomfort, while "rocky" stresses instability and the risk of things going wrong. A rocky patch suggests ups and downs rather than steady hardship.
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