slate — a fine-grained metamorphic rock that can be split into thin layers
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a fine-grained metamorphic rock that can be split into thin layers
Pronunciation (IPA): /sleɪt/
Example Sentences
- My diet starts tomorrow - I want a clean slate with my eating habits.
- The new shopping mall is slated to open next year.
- After breaking his mom's vase, Tommy wished he could wipe the slate clean.
slate
NOUN[/sleɪt/]
a fine-grained metamorphic rock that can be split into thin layers

a fine-grained metamorphic rock that can be split into thin layers

Working late on slate to carve someone's fate
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Old French esclate, meaning 'fragment' or 'piece'. The term originated from the distinctive property of slate rock, which naturally splits into thin, flat sheets, making the word a descriptive reference to this characteristic splitting behavior.
Breakdown
Old French esclate (fragment, piece) → slate. The root relates to the verb meaning 'to split' or 'to break apart', directly referencing slate's natural tendency to cleave into thin layers.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My diet starts tomorrow - I want a clean slate with my eating habits.”
“The new shopping mall is slated to open next year.”
“After breaking his mom's vase, Tommy wished he could wipe the slate clean.”
“The old house had a beautiful slate roof that lasted for decades.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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