gravel

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   small loose stones, often used on paths, roads, or driveways

   Their boots crunched on the gravel outside the house.

2. 2
   verb

   to cover a surface with gravel

   They gravelled the path before winter.

3. 3
   verb

   to puzzle, confuse, or annoy someone

   The strange rule gravelled even the experienced players.

From Old French gravele, a diminutive of grave, "gravel, seashore," probably from a Celtic root for small stones. The figurative verb sense moves from rough stones to mental irritation or obstruction.

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