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Debris Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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debris

[หˆdษ›bri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in the context of waste or scattered remains

Pieces of wood, metal, or other materials that are left after something has been destroyed or used up.

Synonyms

remains, rubble, waste.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
debris

Generally used to describe scattered pieces of something that has been destroyed or broken. Commonly used in the context of accidents, natural disasters, or any destructive process.

  • The cleanup crew worked hard to remove the debris from the road after the storm.
  • The explosion left debris scattered everywhere.
rubble

Used specifically for describing broken pieces of stone, brick, or concrete, typically after a building has been demolished or collapsed.

  • The earthquake left the city in rubble.
  • We could see the children playing on the pile of rubble.
remains

Typically used to refer to what is left of something after a significant portion has been removed, destroyed, or decayed. Can also be used in a more formal or serious context, often in archaeology or for describing human remains.

  • The archaeologists carefully excavated the remains of an ancient civilization.
  • The remains of the old building are still visible.
waste

Refers to materials that are no longer needed and are discarded. Can be used in contexts involving garbage, leftovers, or industrial by-products. Usually has a negative connotation.

  • The factory produces a lot of industrial waste that needs to be managed properly.
  • We need to reduce food waste to help the environment.

Examples of usage

  • The hurricane left behind a trail of debris.
  • The construction site was littered with debris.
Context #2 | Noun

in the context of space exploration

Objects in orbit around the Earth that no longer serve a useful purpose.

Synonyms

satellite debris, space junk.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
debris

Debris refers to general fragments or remains of something that has been broken, destroyed, or discarded. It can be used in many contexts, like after a natural disaster or an accident.

  • After the storm, the streets were filled with debris.
  • The explosion left debris scattered across the area.
space junk

Space junk is an informal term for man-made objects in space that no longer serve any useful purpose. This term is often used in discussions about the increasing amount of waste in Earth's orbit and its potential hazards.

  • Space junk can collide with operational satellites, causing significant damage.
  • Efforts are being made to address the growing problem of space junk.
satellite debris

Satellite debris specifically refers to the fragments or remnants of satellites that remain in orbit around Earth. This term is used in scientific, technical, and space exploration contexts.

  • The increase in satellite debris poses a significant risk to new space missions.
  • Scientists are developing methods to track and remove satellite debris.

Examples of usage

  • The satellite debris posed a threat to other spacecraft.
  • Space agencies are working on ways to clean up orbital debris.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Environmental Science

  • Debris can significantly impact environments; for example, plastic debris in oceans harms marine life.
  • In natural disasters, debris can obstruct rescue efforts and lead to secondary disasters like landslides.
  • Research in debris flow helps scientists understand sediment movement post-glacial retreat.

Pop Culture

  • The term is often used in movies and literature to create imagery of destruction, like in disaster films.
  • In video games, debris often represents a loss or the aftermath of battles, serving as a narrative device.
  • Debris art is a contemporary artistic movement that uses reclaimed materials to create impactful sculptures.

Space Exploration

  • In space, debris refers to defunct satellites and fragments from rocket launches, which pose risks to operational spacecraft.
  • Tracking space debris is crucial for space agencies to prevent collisions in orbit.
  • Some scientists are exploring ways to clean up space debris to ensure safe navigation and sustainability in orbit.

Origin of 'debris'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French word 'dรฉbris', meaning 'rubble' or 'waste'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 18th century, signifying discarded material.
  • The term reflects an idea of loss, often associated with destruction or waste.

The word 'debris' originated from the French language in the early 18th century, derived from the Old French word 'debriser' meaning 'to break down.' Over time, the term evolved to refer to scattered remains or waste material. The usage of 'debris' expanded to include objects in space exploration that cluttered Earth's orbit, posing a risk to functioning satellites and spacecraft.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,888 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.