ENGLISH
REFERENCE

darby

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈdɑɹbi// dar·by

n. a long, flat tool with two handles that builders use to make wet concrete or plaster smooth. It helps level large areas quickly.

n. a long, straight-edged tool, typically made of wood or metal and featuring two handles, used for levelling and smoothing large surfaces of wet plaster or concrete.


SIMPLE

The worker used a darby to level the fresh concrete.

CONTEXTUAL

After pouring the slab, the mason carefully worked the darby across the surface to remove any high spots before the concrete set.

COMPLEX

While a small trowel is sufficient for detail work, a darby is essential for achieving a uniform plane across expansive sections of wall plaster or floor screed.

Usage

Commonly used in the construction and masonry trades; the term is more frequent in British English than American English.

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