asphalt
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
a hard, black mixture used to cover roads and pavements.
a composite material, properly termed asphalt concrete, consisting of mineral aggregate bound together with bitumen and used for road surfaces.
Simple“The heat from the summer sun made the fresh asphalt on the road smell very strong.”
In context“The city council approved a budget to repair the crumbling asphalt on the main highway before the winter freeze caused further damage.”
UsageOften used uncountably when referring to the material in general.
- 02 C1 Advanced
a thick, black, sticky substance found in nature or made from oil.
a highly viscous or semi-solid form of petroleum, primarily composed of bitumen, occurring in natural deposits or as a residue from petroleum distillation.
Simple“Scientists studied the ancient bones found preserved in the natural asphalt pits.”
In context“The chemical composition of the asphalt varies depending on the crude oil source and the specific refining process employed.”
UsageCommonly used in geological or industrial contexts.
From Late Latin asphaltum, from Ancient Greek ἄσφαλτος (ásphaltos, “asphalt, bitumen”). Displaced native Old English eorþteoru.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.