Gravel: meaning, definitions and examples

Gravel is small, loose pieces of rock that are typically used for roads, paths, or as a construction material. It's common in driveways, garden paths, and as a base for paving slabs.

• The driveway is covered in gravel to prevent mud
• We walked along a gravel path through the park

Pebbles are small, smooth stones that are usually found on beaches or riverbeds. They are used decoratively in gardens, in aquarium substrates, or for crafts.

• The children collected colorful pebbles from the beach
• Pebbles are used to create a decorative feature in the garden

Stones are larger pieces of rock that can vary in size and shape. They are often used in landscaping, for building walls, or as decorative elements in gardens. Stones can also refer to natural rock formations.

• We built a small wall using stones from the river
• Large stones were used to create a beautiful rock garden

Crushed rock is stones that have been mechanically broken into small fragments. It's often used in construction or as a base material for roads and buildings. It's also used for drainage and as a filler material in various projects.

• They used crushed rock as a base layer for the new road
• Crushed rock is ideal for creating a stable foundation for a building

Typically used when talking about small stones used for pathways, driveways, or as a base for construction. Often used in outdoor and landscaping contexts.

• The garden path was covered with gravel.
• We need more gravel for the driveway.

Specifically refers to covering a road, walkway, or surface with a solid material like asphalt or concrete. Common in construction and urban development.

• They paved the old dirt road to make it more accessible.
• The city plans to pave the sidewalks next year.

Used to refer to the top layer of something, or to cover an area to make it smooth. Applications can range from construction to everyday situations.

• The surface of the table was very smooth.
• After the road was surfaced, it was much easier to drive on.

General term for placing something over or on top of another to protect, conceal, or decorate. It can be used in a variety of contexts including physical covering or metaphorically.

• Please cover the dishes with lids.
• Her job is to cover breaking news stories.