C1noun2K

Rod

UK /["/rɒd/"]/US /["/rɑːd/"]/

Definition

a long straight piece of wood, metal or glass

In simple words: A long, thin piece of material, usually made of wood or metal.

Examples

  • The concrete is reinforced with steel rods.
  • I finally managed to fix the curtain rods above the windows.
  • After the accident she had an operation to put strengthening rods in her legs.
  • He heated the end of the iron rod.
  • a glass fibre rod 2 or 3 mm in diameter
  • fishing with rod and line
  • There used to be a saying: ‘Spare the rod and spoil the child.’

Usage notes

Used in various contexts such as fishing (fishing rod), construction (reinforcing rod), or as a general term for a stick or bar. Not commonly used in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'a rod' as a ‘rod of iron’ — strong and straight!

Collocations

  • fishing rod
  • metal rod
  • support rod
  • glass rod
  • measuring rod

Synonyms

  • stick
  • bar
  • pole
  • shaft
  • stave

Antonyms

  • sphere
  • block

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'road'.
  • Omitting the article when used in a sentence.
  • Using plural form incorrectly in certain contexts (e.g. 'rods' when referring to a specific type)