Definition

Having many rocks or being difficult and unsteady; often used to describe a situation that is challenging or unstable.

Example

The hikers found the trail to be very rocky, making it hard to walk.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you ever hiked on a rocky trail before?

Yeah, I did once, and it was pretty challenging!

I can imagine! I heard those trails can be really rocky and tough to navigate.

For sure! You need to be careful not to slip on the stones.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rocky → It is formed from "rock" (from Old English *rocc*, meaning a large stone or boulder) and "-y" (a suffix used to form adjectives indicating a characteristic). The word "rocky" describes a surface that is characterized by the presence of rocks.

Memory Tip

Think of a surface that is full of 'rocks' — that's what 'rocky' means, indicating a place with many stones.

Visually Confused Words