tile

word

/ˈtaɪɫ/
/tˈaɪl/

Definition

A hard, flat piece of material, usually ceramic, used to cover floors, walls, or roofs. Also used for small flat images or squares in games and computer interfaces.

Usage & Nuances

Most common for floors, walls, and roofs, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. In technology, 'tile' can refer to image blocks in games, or live 'tiles' on a digital interface. Collocations: 'ceramic tile,' 'roof tile,' 'floor tile.' Do not confuse 'tile' with 'style.'

Example Sentences

Can you pass me that tile for the game?

basic

I love the colorful tiles in her bathroom—they really make it look unique.

natural

He replaced a broken tile on the roof.

basic

The kitchen floor is covered with white tiles.

basic

The newest update lets you move app tiles around on the home screen.

natural

A couple of tiles in the hallway are loose—I almost tripped yesterday.

natural