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Debris

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Scattered fragments or remains of something that has been destroyed, broken, or discarded.
2. Rubble or wreckage left after a destructive event, such as a disaster, accident, or demolition.
3. Any disordered or scattered remains of something that has been dismantled or destroyed.

History and Origin

The word “debris” comes from the French débris, meaning “rubble” or “waste,” which itself originates from the verb débrier, meaning “to break off.” It entered the English language in the 18th century, primarily used to describe the remains of buildings or objects after destruction. Over time, its usage expanded to include any scattered fragments of broken material, including organic or natural remnants, such as leaves or tree branches after a storm.

Detailed Explanation

“Debris” refers to any leftover fragments or pieces of something that has been damaged or broken apart, often after a violent or destructive event. It is commonly used to describe the remains of buildings, vehicles, or objects that have been shattered or demolished. In nature, debris can also refer to leaves, branches, or rocks that accumulate after a natural disaster like a storm or earthquake. While debris typically implies disorder and chaos, it can also be used in less severe contexts to describe any scattered remnants or waste.

Example Sentences

1. After the hurricane, there was debris scattered across the streets.
2. The construction site was filled with bricks and steel debris.
3. Emergency crews worked to clear the debris from the accident scene.
4. The river was clogged with debris, making navigation difficult.
5. The forest was covered with debris from the fallen trees.
6. The cleanup crew removed the debris after the building was demolished.
7. Volunteers collected the debris from the park after the storm.
8. The debris from the crash was spread over a wide area.
9. Scientists studied the debris left by the comet to learn more about its composition.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Rubble – Broken fragments or pieces, especially of stones or buildings after destruction.
2. Wreckage – The remains of something that has been destroyed or severely damaged.
3. Remnants – The small remaining parts of something that has been mostly used up or destroyed.
4. Fragments – Small, broken parts of something that was once whole.
5. Shards – Sharp, broken pieces, especially of glass or ceramic.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Scrap – Small pieces of discarded material, often metal or paper, leftover from manufacturing or destruction.
2. Detritus – Organic material, like dead plant or animal matter, that accumulates in the environment.
3. Trash – Discarded waste material, especially when considered worthless.
4. Litter – Scattered waste or debris, particularly in public spaces.
5. Junk – Old or discarded items that are no longer useful.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Clutter – Disorganized or scattered items that are usually not needed.
2. Waste – Unwanted or unusable material left over after a process.
3. Spoils – The remains of something that has been plundered or destroyed.
4. Ruins – The remains of a destroyed building or structure.
5. Castoffs – Discarded or unwanted items, often referring to clothing or belongings.

Antonyms

1. Order
2. Neatness
3. Cleanliness
4. Organization
5. Intact