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imbricate

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈɪmbrɪkeɪt/

KK: /ˈɪmbrɪkeɪt/

adjective
Definition

Describing something that has edges arranged in an overlapping manner, similar to how roof tiles or fish scales are placed.


Example

The imbricate pattern of the roof tiles added a unique aesthetic to the house.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you seen those new roof designs that are imbricate?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think they look really unique and stylish.
Sloth A
I love how the tiles overlap; it adds so much character.
Sloth B
Exactly! It’s a great way to make a house stand out.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
overlapping
layered
shingled
Antonyms
disjointed
scattered
separate
intransitive verb
Definition

To be arranged in a way that the edges overlap each other regularly, like tiles on a roof.


Example

The leaves of the plant imbricate, creating a beautiful layered effect.


Tense Forms

Past: imbricated

Past Participle: imbricated


Conversation
Sloth A
I love how the tiles imbricate perfectly in this design.
Sloth B
Yeah, it really makes the floor look stylish and modern.
Sloth A
It's interesting to see how they imbricate without any gaps.
transitive verb
Definition

To arrange or place objects so that they overlap in a regular pattern, like tiles on a roof.


Example

The artist chose to imbricate the tiles to create a beautiful mosaic effect.


Tense Forms

Past: imbricated

Past Participle: imbricated


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen how they imbricate the roof tiles?
Sloth B
Yeah, it creates a really nice pattern and keeps the rain out.
Sloth A
Exactly! I love how they imbricate them so perfectly.
Root Explanation

Imbricate → It is formed from "imbricatus" (meaning overlapping) which comes from "imber" (meaning rain) in Latin. The word describes things that are arranged in an overlapping manner, like roof tiles or scales.

Memory Tip

Picture tiles on a roof that are 'overlapping' — that's what 'imbricate' means.

Visually Confused Words
fimbricate
fimbricated
fimbriate
subimbricate
fimbriated
muricate
subimbricated
micate
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
Exactly! It gives such a clean and polished finish.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
overlap
interlace
layer
Antonyms
separate
disjoin
detach
Sloth B
It’s such a clever way to design a roof!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
layer
shingle
overlap
Antonyms
separate
disjoin
detach