Langimage
English

kerb

|kerb|

B1

🇺🇸

/kɜrb/

🇬🇧

/kɜːb/

street edging

Etymology
Etymology Information

'kerb' originates from the Old French word 'courbe', meaning 'curved'.

Historical Evolution

'courbe' transformed into the Middle English word 'curbe', and eventually became the modern English word 'kerb'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'curved or bent', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a stone or concrete edging'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a stone or concrete edging to a street or path.

The car mounted the kerb and hit a lamppost.

Synonyms

Noun 2

(British) Alternative spelling of 'curb'.

He tripped over the kerb while walking.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41