concrete
UK: ˈkɒŋkriːt | US: ˈkɑːnkriːt
adj. existing in a material or physical form; real or solid
n. a building material made from a mixture of broken stone, sand, cement, and water
vt. to cover or fix with concrete
The word "concrete" originates from Latin concretus, the past participle of concrescere ("to grow together"). It originally described things that solidified or coalesced into a unified mass. By the 17th century, it evolved to describe the modern construction material, emphasizing its hardened, composite nature. The morphemes reflect the logic of particles binding ("together") and solidifying ("grow").
The architect chose concrete for the building’s foundation.
Her plans became more concrete after further discussion.
They decided to concrete the backyard patio.
The evidence was too abstract, lacking concrete details.
Ancient Romans used early forms of concrete in their structures.