Pebbly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pebbly

[หˆpษ›bli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

surface texture

Covered or containing many small, round stones.

Synonyms

gravelly, rocky, stone-strewn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pebbly

This word is best used to describe a surface or area covered with small, smooth stones. It's often associated with beaches or riversides.

  • The pebbly beach stretched for miles
  • Her footsteps made a soft crunch on the pebbly path
gravelly

This is appropriate for describing surfaces that are covered with small, loose stones or gravel. It's often used for driveways, paths, and roads.

  • The gravelly driveway was difficult to walk on in high heels
  • He loved the sound of the gravelly path under his tires
rocky

This term is used for areas filled with larger rocks or boulders, such as cliffs, mountainous regions, or rugged terrains.

  • The rocky mountain trails were challenging for even experienced hikers
  • The ship struggled to navigate the rocky shoreline
stone-strewn

This phrase is used to describe areas scattered with stones, giving a sense of disorder or messiness. It can be used for various scenarios, from natural landscapes to old fields.

  • The stone-strewn field made it difficult to cultivate crops
  • After the earthquake, the streets were stone-strewn and hard to pass through

Examples of usage

  • The beach was pebbly, making it uncomfortable to walk barefoot.
  • The path was pebbly, causing the bicycle ride to be bumpy.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Geology

  • Pebbles are typically formed from rock fragments through a process called weathering, where larger rocks break down over time.
  • Different types of rock, like quartz, granite, and limestone, can form pebbles. Each type has its unique colors and textures.

Art and Nature

  • Artist Andy Goldsworthy often incorporates pebbly materials in his land art, showcasing nature's beauty in contrast with the surrounding landscape.
  • Pebbles can be used in gardening and landscaping to create pathways or decorative features in outdoor spaces.

Ecology

  • Pebbly riverbeds provide important habitats for various aquatic species, including fish and insects, which thrive in such environments.
  • The texture of a pebbly surface can affect how animals move and interact in their habitat, influencing their behavior and ecology.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, smooth pebbles are often used in traditional games, artistic expressions, and even spiritual practices.
  • Decorative pebbly paths can symbolize lifeโ€™s journey, representing the concept of overcoming small obstacles to create something beautiful.

Origin of 'pebbly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pebbly' comes from 'pebble', which itself originated from the Old English word 'pรฆbble', meaning a small stone.
  • The suffix '-y' in 'pebbly' indicates an abundance of the quality described, suggesting 'full of pebbles'.

The word 'pebbly' originated from the noun 'pebble', which comes from Middle English 'pibel', of obscure origin. Pebbles have been used for centuries by humans for various purposes, from tools and weapons to decoration. The adjective form 'pebbly' emerged to describe surfaces or areas covered with pebbles, commonly found on beaches, riverbanks, or paths.


See also: pebbles.