Definition

A type of road surface made from crushed stone mixed with tar, which is then pressed down to create a smooth pavement.

Example

The new airport runway was built using tarmacadam for better durability.

Conversation

I just learned that the new road is made of tarmacadam.

Really? I didn't know they still used that material.

Yeah, it’s supposed to be more durable than regular asphalt.

That’s interesting! I guess it makes the road last longer.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tarmacadam is formed from "tar" (from Old French *tarre*, meaning a black viscous liquid) and "macadam" (from the name of John Loudon McAdam, who developed a method of road construction using small stones). The word refers to a type of road surface made by combining tar with crushed stone.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tar' as the black liquid that binds the small stones ('macadam') together to create a solid road surface.

Visually Confused Words