debris
UK: ˈdeɪ.briː | US: dəˈbriː
n. scattered fragments, typically of something wrecked or destroyed
n. loose natural material (e.g., rock fragments, organic matter)
Debris entered English in the 18th century from French débris, meaning "remains of something broken down." The word reflects a logical progression: the prefix de- emphasizes separation, while bris conveys fragmentation. Its Gaulish roots suggest an ancient link to physical destruction, later refined in French to describe rubble or geological fragments.
After the earthquake, the streets were littered with debris.
Workers cleared the debris from the construction site.
The avalanche left a trail of debris across the mountain.
Archaeologists sifted through the debris to find artifacts.
The storm scattered debris over several miles.