Cool MateRod
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)