B1noun 5K

Wad

UK //wɒd// US //wɑːd// Pronunciation

Definition

A small mass of soft material, often rolled or folded.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A small roll or mass of something, often paper or cloth.

Examples

• He took out a wad of cash from his pocket.
• She handed him a wad of paper towels.
• The dog chewed on a wad of cloth it found outside.
• He stuffed the wad into his backpack before leaving.
• She crumpled the wad and tossed it in the bin.

Usage notes

Used to describe a small, tightly packed amount of material. Common in informal contexts but appropriate in most situations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'wad' as 'wad of dough' for money.

Collocations

• wad of cash
• wad of paper
• wad of chewing gum

Synonyms

• bundle
• roll
• clump
• ball
• heap

Antonyms

• single item
• few
• individual piece

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'wad' as in a bunch vs. 'wad' as in thick paper.
• Mispronounce the word, often stressing the incorrect syllable.
• Using 'wad' only for money; it can refer to any rolled material.