# stockpile

/ˈstɑkˌpaɪɫ/ (US) · /stˈɒkpaɪl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stockpile
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. a large supply

noun · CEFR B2

a large amount of something, like food or fuel, that you keep in a safe place to use later.

For teachers: a large accumulated stock of goods or materials held in reserve for future use, especially during a shortage.

- The country keeps a large stockpile of oil in case of a global emergency.
- The government maintained a strategic stockpile of essential medical supplies to ensure readiness for any potential public health crisis.

### 2. mining/industry

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a large pile of coal or metal rocks kept on the ground after being taken from a mine.

For teachers: a large, outdoor mound of ore, coal, or other raw materials stored at a mine or industrial site.

- Huge stockpiles of coal were visible near the entrance of the power plant.
- Environmental regulations require the mining company to cover its iron ore stockpiles to prevent dust from blowing into the nearby village.

### 3. to accumulate

verb · CEFR B2

to collect and store a large amount of something so you have it for the future.

For teachers: to accumulate a large supply of goods or resources, often as a precautionary measure against future scarcity.

- Some people started to stockpile water and canned food before the storm arrived.
- Anticipating a significant disruption in the supply chain, the manufacturer began to stockpile raw materials six months in advance.

Usage: This verb is transitive and requires a direct object.

## Examples

- The country has a large stockpile of fuel for the winter.
- During the global health crisis, many nations struggled to maintain an adequate stockpile of personal protective equipment for hospital staff.
- The treaty required both nations to significantly reduce their nuclear stockpile as a gesture of goodwill and a step toward long-term regional stability.

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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.