Cement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cement
[sษชหmษnt ]
Definitions
building material
A powdery substance made by calcining lime and clay, mixed with water to form mortar or with sand, gravel, and water to make concrete.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The construction workers used cement to lay the foundation of the building.
- Cement is a crucial ingredient in the construction industry.
strengthen or support
To make something stronger or more solid by adding cement to it.
Synonyms
fortify, solidify, strengthen.
Examples of usage
- The agreement was cemented by a handshake.
- Their friendship was cemented through shared experiences.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Ancient Romans used a version of cement in their buildings, many of which stand today, showing its strength and durability.
- The Pantheon in Rome, completed in 126 AD, is still the worldโs largest unreinforced concrete dome, showcasing early cement innovation.
Science
- Cement sets and hardens by a chemical reaction known as hydration, which binds the materials and gives it strength.
- Portland cement, the most commonly used type, was named after the Isle of Portland in England where the stone resembled the color of the cement.
Construction
- Cement is a key ingredient in concrete, which is the most widely used building material in the world.
- The environmental impact of cement production is significant; it accounts for about 8% of global CO2 emissions.
Pop Culture
- Cement has appeared in numerous films and shows, often symbolizing the foundation of construction or stability.
- The phrase 'cementing a relationship' is commonly used to describe making a bond or connection stronger.
Origin of 'cement'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'cement' comes from the Latin word 'caementum', which refers to stone chips or rough stone.
- In the 18th century, the modern form of cement was developed as an artificial hydraulic binder, changing construction forever.
The word 'cement' originated from the Latin word 'caementum', which referred to rough pieces of stone used in construction. The modern usage of 'cement' to refer to the binding material in construction began in the 14th century. Over the years, the process of making cement has evolved, leading to the widespread use of this important building material in construction projects around the world.
See also: cementation, cementing.