Marble

/ˈmɑːr.bəl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A type of metamorphic rock that is formed from limestone and is characterized by its fine grain and ability to be polished, often used in sculpture and architecture.

The statue was carved from a single block of white marble.

A small spherical object made of glass, clay, or stone, used in children's games.

The children played marbles on the front porch during the summer.

A hard, smooth stone of various colors, used for decorative purposes.

The flooring was made of durable marble tiles that gleamed in the sunlight.

verb

To make or decorate with marble or a marble-like appearance.

They plan to marble the countertops in the kitchen for a more elegant look.

Etymology

From Middle English 'marbul', from Old French 'marbre', from Latin 'marmor'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

lose your marbles

To become crazy or lose one's mind.

get your marbles back

To recover one's senses or mental clarity.

marble in

To include or involve something.

marble cake

A type of cake that has both light and dark batter.

Related Words

mosaic

A piece of art or image made from the assemblage of small pieces of colored glass, stone, or other materials.

granite

A very hard, granular, crystalline, igneous rock composed mainly of quartz and feldspar.

Slang Meanings

To be crazy or out of touch with reality.

After that last exam, I think I've officially lost my marbles!

To behave foolishly or irrationally.

She must be marbled if she thinks that plan will work.