VocabDictionary

rock

/rɒk/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The solid mineral material forming part of the surface of the earth, exposed or underlying the soil.

Example Sentences:
  • The climbers scaled the sheer face of the rock.
  • Geologists collected various rock samples from the canyon.
2.verb

To move gently back and forth or from side to side, or to cause something to do so.

Example Sentences:
  • She gently rocked the baby to sleep in the cradle.
  • The small boat began to rock violently in the rough waves.
3.noun

A genre of popular music originating in the 1950s, characterized by a strong beat and the prominent use of electric guitars.

Example Sentences:
  • He has an extensive collection of classic rock vinyl records.
  • The stadium was packed with fans ready for a night of rock.
4.verb

To be extremely good, impressive, or exciting.

Example Sentences:
  • Thanks for helping me with my homework, you rock!
  • That concert last night absolutely rocked.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “rock”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

The noun 'rock' (stone) traces back to Middle English 'rokke', influenced by Old North French 'roque' and Medieval Latin 'rocca' (of Celtic or pre-Roman origin). The verb 'rock' (to move back and forth) derives from Old English 'roccian' meaning 'to rock a child', which is of Germanic origin and related to Old Norse 'rykkja' (to pull or tug). The musical genre term 'rock' emerged in the 1950s as a shortening of 'rock and roll'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'rock' as something 'rock-solid' that doesn't budge, or picture a rocking chair moving back and forth on a stone patio.

Common Collocations & Phrases
Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “rock

1. What is the meaning of “rock” in English?

In English, rock (noun) is defined as: “The solid mineral material forming part of the surface of the earth, exposed or underlying the soil.”.

2. How do you use “rock” in a sentence?

The climbers scaled the sheer face of the rock.

3. What are English synonyms of “rock”?

Common synonyms include:stone,boulder,sway,oscillate,excel

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “rock”?

The noun 'rock' (stone) traces back to Middle English 'rokke', influenced by Old North French 'roque' and Medieval Latin 'rocca' (of Celtic or pre-Roman origin). The verb 'rock' (to move back and forth) derives from Old English 'roccian' meaning 'to rock a child', which is of Germanic origin and related to Old Norse 'rykkja' (to pull or tug). The musical genre term 'rock' emerged in the 1950s as a shortening of 'rock and roll'.