Gravel

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Gravel

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and verb

Pronunciation

GRAV-ul  /ˈɡræv(ə)l/

Definition

As a noun: small stones used for paths, roads, and surfaces; a mixture of rock fragments between 2mm and 64mm in size. As a verb: (dated) to puzzle or perplex; to cover with gravel.

Plain meaning

Gravel is the small stones used to make paths and driveways — a coarse mixture of rock fragments. As a verb, to gravel someone means to baffle or perplex them completely.

Register

Neutral in its material sense. The verb sense of perplexing is dated and slightly literary — the question gravelled him. In cycling and outdoor recreation, gravel has become a specific and popular category.