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Definition of pebble

pebble

/ˈpɛb.əl/
peb · ble

Plural:pebbles
•
Adjective:pebbly
•
Past Simple:pebbled
•
Past Participle:pebbled
•
Present Participle:pebbling
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pebble Lexical Profile

pebble Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A small, usually rounded stone, especially one that has been worn smooth by the action of water or erosion.

Example

"We spent the afternoon skipping pebbles across the calm surface of the lake."


2

A transparent and colorless rock crystal (often quartz) traditionally used for making spectacle lenses.

Example

"Antique spectacles were sometimes crafted using polished Brazilian pebble rather than manufactured glass."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for pebble

• verb

1

To cover, pave, or line a surface with small, rounded stones.

Example

"The landscaper decided to pebble the courtyard to improve drainage and add a rustic aesthetic."


2

To impart a rough, granular, and uneven texture to a surface, particularly leather or paper.

Example

"The tanner will pebble the heavy leather to hide imperfections and give the boots a rugged appearance."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for pebble

Word Origin & Etymology

From Late Old English 'papol' or 'popol' (as in 'papolstān', meaning pebble-stone), of uncertain origin, possibly imitative of the sound of water bubbling or stones chattering on a beach.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pebble. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pebble
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