# asphalt

/ˈæsˌfɔɫt/ (US) · /ˈæsfɒlt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/asphalt
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. road surface material

noun · CEFR B2

a hard, black mixture used to cover roads and pavements.

For teachers: a composite material, properly termed asphalt concrete, consisting of mineral aggregate bound together with bitumen and used for road surfaces.

- The heat from the summer sun made the fresh asphalt on the road smell very strong.
- The city council approved a budget to repair the crumbling asphalt on the main highway before the winter freeze caused further damage.

Usage: Often used uncountably when referring to the material in general.

### 2. raw bitumen

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a thick, black, sticky substance found in nature or made from oil.

For teachers: a highly viscous or semi-solid form of petroleum, primarily composed of bitumen, occurring in natural deposits or as a residue from petroleum distillation.

- Scientists studied the ancient bones found preserved in the natural asphalt pits.
- The chemical composition of the asphalt varies depending on the crude oil source and the specific refining process employed.

Usage: Commonly used in geological or industrial contexts.

## Examples

- The road is covered in fresh asphalt.
- Workers poured hot asphalt to repair the potholes on the main street.
- The smooth, black asphalt reflected the neon lights of the city, creating a glossy surface that contrasted with the rough concrete sidewalks.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.