pebble
UK: ˈpɛb(ə)l | US: ˈpɛb(ə)l
n. a small, smooth stone rounded by the action of water or friction
n. (informal) a transparent colorless rock crystal used in lenses or optical instruments
The word "pebble" originates from Old English papol or pyppel, meaning "small stone," likely derived from a reduplicative root imitating the sound of rattling stones. The suffix -le is a diminutive, emphasizing the small size. Over time, the word evolved to specifically denote smooth, water-worn stones, reflecting its connection to natural erosion processes.
She skipped a pebble across the lake, watching it bounce three times.
The beach was covered in colorful pebbles polished by the waves.
Ancient tools were often made from flint pebbles found in riverbeds.
The jeweler used a clear pebble as a magnifying lens.
Children collected pebbles to build miniature towers on the shore.