Stones Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
stones
[stษสnz ]
Definitions
precious stones
Hard solid nonmetal mineral matter of which rock is made, especially as a building material.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stones |
Same as the previous entry; includes pebbles, larger rocks, used in a broader range of contexts.
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| gem |
Refers to a precious or semi-precious mineral, usually polished and used in jewelry. It implies beauty and value.
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| jewel |
Implies an item of jewelry or an individual gemstone, typically associated with wealth and elegance.
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| mineral |
Scientific term for naturally occurring substances typically found in the earth, not necessarily valuable or used in jewelry.
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Examples of usage
- Her engagement ring was set with a large diamond and several other precious stones.
- The castle walls were built of large stones.
- He collected colorful stones from his travels around the world.
kidney stones
Small hard deposit that forms in the kidneys and is often painful when passed.
Synonyms
nephrolithiasis, renal calculi.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stones |
Primarily used to describe hard, solid masses found in nature, but can also mean kidney stones in everyday conversation.
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| renal calculi |
Formal medical term used by healthcare professionals to refer to kidney stones.
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| nephrolithiasis |
Medical term often used in professional or clinical settings to describe the condition of having kidney stones.
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Examples of usage
- He was rushed to the hospital with severe pain caused by kidney stones.
- Drinking plenty of water can help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
stones in a game
A small piece of rock used in various games, especially in the game of marbles.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stones |
Small to medium-sized rock fragments, commonly used in landscaping, construction, or jewelry.
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| rock |
A large, solid mass of minerals, used in geology and commonly found in nature.
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| pebble |
Small, smooth, rounded stones, typically found on beaches and riverbeds.
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| marble |
A type of stone known for its smooth texture and attractiveness, often used in sculpture and architecture.
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Examples of usage
- She won the game by hitting her opponent's stone out of the circle.
- The children enjoyed playing with colorful stones in the park.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Geology
- Stones come from different types of rocks, such as igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic, each formed through unique processes.
- The Earth's crust is mainly made up of stones, which are critical in understanding the planet's history and structure.
- Some stones, like granite, are widely used in construction due to their durability and beauty.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, stones are seen as symbols of strength, stability, and permanence in art and literature.
- Certain stones, like jade in China or turquoise in Native American cultures, carry deep cultural significance and are believed to bring good fortune or health.
- Stones have been used for spiritual practices, such as healing crystals, believed to hold unique energies.
Historical Use
- Stone tools were among the first human inventions, marking the beginning of the Stone Age, which revolutionized how early humans hunted and gathered.
- Ancient monuments, like Stonehenge, demonstrate the monumental importance of stones in human history and architecture.
- Stones have been used as currency in some cultures, such as the 'fei stones' of Yap, illustrating their fundamental economic role.
Science and Nature
- Some stones can be millions of years old, giving scientists insights into Earth's history through methods like radiometric dating.
- Stones can be formed through processes like cooling and solidifying molten lava or compression of sediments over time.
- Certain gemstones form deep within the Earth and are brought to the surface through volcanic activity, showcasing the dynamic nature of our planet.
Art and Literature
- Stone sculptures have been a part of artistic expression for centuries, seen in works from ancient Greece to modern art.
- The phrase 'rolling stone gathers no moss' suggests the idea of movement and change, highlighting human experiences and wisdom.
- Poets and writers often use stones metaphorically to represent themes of weight, permanence, or unyielding nature in their works.
Origin of 'stones'
The word 'stones' has Old English origins, coming from the word 'stan'. It has been used for centuries to refer to hard solid mineral matter, precious gems, and small pieces of rock. Stones have played important roles in various cultures and have been used for construction, decoration, and games. The formation of kidney stones has been a medical concern throughout history, with treatments evolving over time.
See also: stone, stonecarver, stonecraft, stonecutter, stonecutting, stoned, stonemason, stonemasonry, stoner, stoneware, stonework, stony.