debris

word

/dəˈbɹi/
/dˈɛbɹiː/

Definition

Broken pieces, fragments, or scattered remains of something that has been destroyed or damaged. Often used to refer to the remains after an accident, disaster, or destruction.

Usage & Nuances

"Debris" is an uncountable noun (no plural: not "debrises"). Common collocations: "debris from the crash", "clear the debris", "flying debris". Used in both formal and neutral contexts, especially for destruction, accidents, or natural disasters.

Example Sentences

The explosion sent debris flying in every direction.

natural

It took hours to clear all the debris from the airport runway.

natural

The road was covered with debris after the storm.

basic

Workers are removing debris from the collapsed building.

basic

Be careful—there is debris on the floor.

basic

There was so much debris floating in the river after the flood.

natural