C1noun3K

Debris

UK /["/ˈdebriː//ˈdeɪbriː/"]/US /["/dəˈbriː/"]/

Definition

pieces of wood, metal, building materials, etc. that are left after something has been destroyed

In simple words: Pieces of broken things.

Examples

  • Emergency teams are still clearing the debris from the plane crash.
  • Several people were injured by flying debris in the explosion.
  • Debris rained down around them.
  • Police have spent the day sifting through the debris for clues.
  • She found a pair of children's shoes among the debris.
  • The tank exploded, scattering debris all over the field.
  • Clear away leaves and other garden debris from the pond.
  • the debris of their lunch
  • Remember to clear the drain of debris regularly.
  • These worms feed on plant debris.

Usage notes

Use 'debris' to describe trash or rubble, often after a disaster. It’s neutral and can be used in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in casual slang settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'debris' like 'debris on the street' — visualize a messy road after a storm.

Collocations

  • falling
  • flying
  • food
  • piece
  • heap
  • pile
  • scatter
  • send
  • clear
  • accumulate
  • fly
  • fall
  • among the debris
  • in the debris
  • falling
  • flying
  • food
  • piece
  • heap
  • pile
  • scatter
  • send
  • clear
  • accumulate
  • fly
  • fall
  • among the debris
  • in the debris

Synonyms

  • wreckage
  • rubble
  • junk
  • trash
  • refuse

Antonyms

  • cleanliness
  • tidiness

Common mistakes

  • 'Debree' spelling confusion.
  • Using 'debris' as a singular noun when it's always plural.
  • Mistakenly describing things that are whole as debris.