Debris: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.