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Marble

UK //ˈmɑːbəl//US //ˈmɑrbəl//

Definition

A small, spherical object made of glass or stone used in games or decoration.

In simple words: A small, round ball made of glass or stone.

Examples

  • The children played with colorful marbles in the park.
  • She carefully placed the marble on the shelf.
  • The statue was carved from beautiful white marble.
  • The table was topped with a smooth marble surface.
  • She admired the marbles swirling in the artwork.

Usage notes

Use 'marble' when referring to the small toy or the stone. Avoid using in overly formal contexts where alternatives like 'alabaster' may be preferred.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a game: marbles rolling on the floor.

Collocations

  • glass marble
  • marble game
  • marble surface

Synonyms

  • bead
  • sphere
  • ball
  • gem
  • stone

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'marbling' in art.
  • Mistake using 'marble' as a verb instead of a noun.
  • Using 'marble' to describe just any type of stone.