Gravel
/ˈɡræv.əl/noun
A loose aggregation of small stones or pebbles, often used in construction.
Did you know?The word 'gravel' is tied to ancient roots that suggest a connection to 'grasping'—hinting at the primal nature of collecting stones.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ger-
“to gather or to bring together.”
Latin
Latin
gravella
“small stones or pebbles, diminutive of 'gravis' meaning heavy.”
Old French
Old French
gravelle
“small stones or gravel.”
Middle English
Middle English
gravel
“a collection of small stones, used in construction.”
Modern English
English
gravel
“loose stone used for paths, roads, and construction.”