Definition

A heavy material used to provide stability, often placed in ships or balloons, or a type of gravel used for building roads and railways.

Example

The ship was filled with ballast to ensure it remained stable in rough waters.

Conversation

Did you know that ships need ballast to stay stable in the water?

Yeah, I've heard that helps with their balance.

It's interesting how they use heavy materials for ballast to prevent tipping over.

Exactly! I guess it’s really important for safety at sea.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To fill or support something, especially a structure like a railroad bed, with heavy material to provide stability.

Example

The workers will ballast the tracks to ensure they remain stable during heavy trains.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you know they need to ballast the train tracks regularly?

Yeah, it helps keep everything stable and prevents accidents.

I guess that makes sense, especially on uneven ground.

Root Explanation

Ballast → The word 'ballast' originates from Middle English 'balast' (meaning heavy material used to stabilize a ship) and is derived from the Old Norse 'bǫl' (meaning a ship) and 'last' (meaning load). It refers to the heavy material placed in a vessel to provide stability and balance.

Memory Tip

Think of a ship needing a 'load' ('last') to keep it steady in the water, which helps you remember that 'ballast' is the heavy material used for stability.

Visually Confused Words