Concrete Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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concrete
[หkษลkriหt ]
Definitions
building material
A heavy, rough building material made from a mixture of broken stone or gravel, sand, cement, and water, that can be spread or poured into molds and forms a stonelike mass on hardening.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| concrete |
Used when referring to a strong, solid building material made by mixing cement, sand, gravel, and water, commonly used for constructing foundations, roads, and buildings.
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| cement |
Refers to the powdery substance made from limestone and clay that acts as a binder when mixed with water to form concrete or mortar.
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| mortar |
Often used to describe the mixture of cement, lime, sand, and water used to bond bricks or stones together.
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| plaster |
Refers to a pasty substance made from a mixture of lime or gypsum, water, and sand, used for coating walls and ceilings.
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Examples of usage
- Workers were pouring concrete into the foundation.
- The driveway was made of concrete.
- She tripped on a patch of wet concrete.
specific and definite
Existing in a material or physical form; not abstract.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| concrete |
When you need to describe something that is real and tangible, not abstract or theoretical.
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| specific |
Useful when referring to something particular or when being detailed about something.
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| definite |
When you need to indicate something that is clearly defined or precise without any ambiguity.
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| actual |
Used to emphasize the reality of something, often in contrast to what was expected or assumed.
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Examples of usage
- The plan was still in the concrete stages.
- She needed to see concrete evidence before believing.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- The modern form of concrete as we know it was developed in the 18th century during the Industrial Revolution.
- Ancient Egyptians used a form of concrete in the construction of the Pyramids, showcasing its long history in building dense structures.
- In the 20th century, reinforced concrete was invented, allowing for taller buildings and more complex structures.
Science
- Concrete is a composite material, made up of aggregates (like sand and gravel) bound together by cement.
- When mixed with water, the chemical reaction creates a process called hydration, allowing it to set and harden.
- Once set, concrete can withstand substantial pressure and weight, making it a preferred choice for large structures.
Art
- Concrete is not just functional; it's also used in art, with artists creating sculptures and installations from the material.
- In the mid-20th century, the Brutalist architectural style emerged, characterized by raw concrete structures that convey strength and simplicity.
- Public art installations often incorporate concrete for its durability and ability to withstand the elements.
Pop Culture
- Concrete jungles is a phrase used to describe urban areas with many tall buildings, emphasizing a lack of greenery.
- In movies, the imagery of a 'concrete battlefield' often conveys harsh, unyielding environments.
- Concrete has become a symbol of modernity in many music videos and fashion photoshoots, highlighting urban settings.
Origin of 'concrete'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'concretus', meaning 'to harden' or 'to grow together'.
- In ancient Rome, concrete was used extensively in structures like the Pantheon, which still stands today.
- The term has evolved in English since the 14th century, initially referring to the idea of something being real or tangible.
The word 'concrete' originated from the Latin word 'concretus', which means 'grown together' or 'hardened'. The term was first used in the 17th century to refer to the building material made from a mixture of cement, water, and aggregates. Concrete has since become a fundamental material in construction due to its strength, durability, and versatility.