Concrete

Definition

Concrete is both a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a composite material composed of coarse aggregate bonded together with a fluid cement that hardens over time. As an adjective, it refers to something that is real, tangible, and specific, as opposed to abstract or theoretical.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (Noun/Adjective): /ˈkɑːnkriːt/
• Respelling (Noun/Adjective): KON-kreet

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (Noun/Adjective): /ˈkɒŋkriːt/
• Respelling (Noun/Adjective): KON-kreet

The pronunciation of "concrete" is similar in both American and British English, with a slight difference in the vowel sound of the first syllable.

Etymology

The word "concrete" comes from the Latin term "concretus," meaning "condensed, hardened," from the verb "concrescere," meaning "to grow together." It entered the English language in the late Middle English period, originally used to describe something that had taken on a definite shape or form.

Derivatives

• Concretion (noun)
• Concretize (verb)
• Concretely (adverb)
• Concrete (verb, less common)
• Concretization (noun)

Synonyms

• Solid
• Tangible
• Specific

Antonyms

• Abstract
• Theoretical
• Immaterial

Usage

The term "concrete" is used in various contexts. As a noun, it refers to the building material commonly used in construction, such as in the phrase "The building is made of concrete." As an adjective, it is used to describe something that is definite or specific, such as in "She provided concrete evidence to support her claim."

Related Terms

• Cement: The binding substance used in concrete.
• Aggregate: The particles, such as sand or gravel, mixed with cement to form concrete.
• Foundation: The lowest load-bearing part of a building, typically made of concrete.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A building material made from a mixture of broken stone or gravel, sand, cement, and water: This composite material hardens over time and is widely used in construction.
  • Example: "The bridge is constructed of reinforced concrete."

Adjective

• Existing in a material or physical form; real or solid: Refers to something that is definite and specific, as opposed to abstract or imaginary.
  • Example: "The report provided concrete solutions to the problem."