What does pebble mean?
A pebble is a small stone, especially one that has been rounded or smoothed by water, weather, or natural wear. The word commonly appears in descriptions of riverbanks, beaches, gravel paths, and children’s games such as skipping stones: someone might “skip a pebble” across a pond. Pebbles also refer to small stones used to cover a surface, decorate an object, or form part of a traditional building finish. As a verb, “to pebble” means to strike with pebbles or cover something with them. The term is familiar and neutral in both British and American English, although it can suggest the relatively small size and smooth appearance of the stone rather than a rough, angular rock.
A small stone, especially one that is naturally rounded or smooth.
"The child picked up a flat pebble from the beach."
The word often emphasizes a stone’s small size and smoothed shape.
To strike, cover, or decorate something with pebbles.
"The walls of the courtyard were pebbled with rounded stones."
This use is less common than the noun and is especially associated with covering or decorating a surface with small stones.
The regular plural is “pebbles,” pronounced /ˈpɛbəlz/.
"Smooth pebbles filled the shallow pool."
A pebble is a stone made small and smooth by time, water, or wear.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pebble come from?
The English word “pebble” is recorded from the Middle English period. Its ultimate origin is uncertain, and although proposals have linked it to older Germanic forms, its precise derivation cannot be stated confidently. Modern related forms include the plural “pebbles” and the adjective “pebbly.”
Related word forms
How pebble is actually used
“Pebble” is neutral in tone and commonly describes a naturally small or worn stone. As a verb, it is less frequent and can refer to covering or decorating a surface with pebbles.
Easily confused with pebble
A pebble is generally a small, naturally rounded stone, whereas a cobble is a rounded stone used in paving or construction.