Definition

A collection of broken stones or bricks, often found after a building has been destroyed or damaged.

Example

After the earthquake, the streets were filled with rubble from the collapsed buildings.

Conversation

Did you see the old building downtown?

Yeah, it's been in ruins for ages, just a pile of rubble now.

I wonder if they're ever going to clean up all that rubble.

I hope so; it makes the area look so neglected.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To break something down into small pieces or fragments, often as a result of destruction.

Example

The earthquake caused the building to rubble, leaving only debris behind.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see the news about that old building getting demolished?

Yeah, they said it was going to be reduced to rubble.

I can't believe how quickly they can rubble a structure like that.

Root Explanation

Rubble originates from Middle English 'rubble' (meaning broken stone or debris), which is derived from Old French 'roble' (meaning a fragment or piece). The word refers to broken pieces of stone or brick, typically resulting from the demolition of buildings.

Memory Tip

Think of 'fragments' or 'pieces' from the Old French 'roble' to remember that rubble refers to broken stone or debris.

Visually Confused Words