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Slate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿชจ
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slate

[sleษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

building material

A type of fine-grained rock that can be easily split into thin layers. It is commonly used as a building material for roofs, floors, and walls.

Synonyms

shale, slab, stone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
slate

Slate is often used in construction and roofing because it is a durable and attractive material. It is also used in arts and crafts, such as making chalkboards or flooring.

  • The roof was covered with slate tiles to give it a classic look.
  • The artist used slate to create a unique, textured surface for her paintings.
stone

Stone is a general term for any hard, solid, nonmetallic mineral matter and is commonly used in building materials, landscaping, and art. It can refer to a small pebble or a large rock.

  • The garden path was lined with decorative stones.
  • Ancient monuments were often carved from massive stones.
shale

Shale is a type of sedimentary rock that is used primarily in the oil and gas industry because it can contain fossil fuels. It is also sometimes used to make bricks and cement.

  • Shale formations can yield significant amounts of natural gas.
  • The construction company used shale to produce high-quality cement.
slab

A slab typically refers to a large, thick, flat piece of stone, concrete, or wood. This term is commonly used in construction and culinary contexts.

  • The kitchen countertop was made from a single slab of marble.
  • The workers poured a concrete slab for the new driveway.

Examples of usage

  • The roof of the house was made of slate tiles.
  • The school hallway was paved with slate flooring.
Context #2 | Noun

tablet

A flat piece of slate used for writing or drawing with chalk. It was commonly used as a writing surface in schools before the advent of paper.

Synonyms

chalkboard, tablet, writing board.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
slate

A thin, flat piece of rock used historically for writing with a piece of chalk. Commonly used in older times for taking notes or drawing.

  • The student wrote the math problems on his slate
  • Teachers used to give students a small slate to practice their handwriting
chalkboard

A smooth black or green board where information is written with chalk, typically used in classrooms. Still commonly found in educational settings.

  • The teacher wrote the day's lesson on the chalkboard
  • She drew a diagram on the chalkboard to explain the science concept
tablet

An electronic device with a touchscreen interface used for reading, writing, and other digital activities. Common in modern educational and professional settings.

  • She uses her tablet to take notes in class
  • Children play educational games on their tablets
writing board

A general term for any board used for writing, which can include whiteboards, blackboards, or any other writable surface. The term can be used in various settings like offices, classrooms, or homes.

  • Please write your answers on the writing board
  • The meeting room has a large writing board for brainstorming sessions

Examples of usage

  • The teacher wrote the lesson on the slate.
  • Children practiced their handwriting on slates.

Translations

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

Origin of 'slate'

The word 'slate' originated from Old French 'esclate' which meant 'roof tile'. It was derived from Latin 'sclata' meaning 'splinter'. Slate has been used as a building material for centuries due to its durability and resistance to weathering. In the past, it was also commonly used as a writing surface before paper became widely available.

See also: slat, slats.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,954 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.