What does blacktopping mean?
Blacktopping is the process of applying a layer of asphalt or tar to a surface, typically a road or parking lot. This process is commonly used in construction and maintenance work, and is often used interchangeably with asphalting. However, blacktopping can also refer to the application of other types of surface materials. The term is typically used in informal contexts, such as construction or maintenance work, and is often used in conjunction with other terms, such as surfacing or tar coating. Despite its widespread use, blacktopping is not a widely recognized term in formal or technical contexts, and is often replaced with more specific or technical terms.
nounThe process of applying a layer of asphalt or tar to a surface, typically a road or parking lot.
- The process of applying a layer of asphalt or tar to a surface.
"The construction crew began blacktopping the new highway yesterday."
"The construction crew began blacktopping the new highway yesterday."
"The city council voted to blacktop the entire downtown area."
The plural form is used when referring to multiple instances of the process, or when describing a collection of surfaces that have been blacktopped.
"The city council voted to blacktop the entire downtown area, which required multiple blacktoppings."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of blacktopping
The term blacktopping is derived from the combination of the words 'black' and 'topping', referring to the dark color of the asphalt or tar used in the process. The term is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century, as a colloquialism for the process of applying a layer of asphalt or tar to a surface.
How blacktopping is actually used
Blacktopping is typically used in informal contexts, such as construction or maintenance work. It is often used interchangeably with asphalting, but can also refer to the application of other types of surface materials.