Slate

Noun

Definition: A fine-grained, foliated rock that is commonly used for roofing, flooring, and paving.

Definition: A flat piece of slate used for writing or as a writing surface.

Synonyms: Stone, Shale, Slab

Antonyms: -

Examples:
  • The roof of the house was made of slate.
  • He wrote his plans on a slate before presenting them to his team.
Mnemonics:
  • Imagine a slate being used as a writing surface.

Verb

Definition: To criticize or condemn severely.

Synonyms: Criticize, Censure, Condemn

Antonyms: Praise, Commend, Laud

Examples:
  • The film was slated by the critics for its poor acting and weak plot.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of a reviewer marking a negative review on a slate.

Adjective

Definition: Having a bluish-grey color like that of slate.

Synonyms: Bluish-grey, Grayish-blue

Antonyms: -

Examples:
  • She painted the walls in a slate color to create a calming atmosphere in the room.
Mnemonics:
  • The adjective "slate" refers to a color similar to the stone.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English, from Old French esclate, probably from esclat (a chip, splinter) from Old High German slizzan (to break off)

Historical Usage:

The word slate has evolved over time but has been used to refer to the stone and its various applications for centuries.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Clean slate"

Explanation:

Starting fresh, without any past mistakes or burdens.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Assuming the verb "slate" only means to propose.

Explanation:

Although "slate" can mean to propose or suggest in some specific contexts, its primary meaning is to criticize severely.

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