marble

word

/ˈmɑɹbəɫ/
MAR-buhl
/mˈɑːbəl/
MAH-buhl

Definition

A hard, smooth stone often used for buildings and statues. It can also mean a small, glass ball children play games with.

Usage & Nuances

As a material, 'marble' is uncountable ('made of marble'). As a toy, 'marble' is countable ('three marbles'). The phrase 'lose your marbles' means to go crazy (informal).

Example Sentences

The floor is made of marble.

basic

Statues in the museum are carved from white marble.

basic

I used to collect marbles when I was a kid.

natural

The kitchen looks brighter after we changed the counters to marble.

natural

Don't lose your last marble in the game!

natural

He found a blue marble under the bed.

basic