tarmac
|tar/mac|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈtɑːrˌmæk/
🇬🇧
/ˈtɑː.mæk/
tar-based road surface
Etymology
Etymology Information
'tarmac' originates from the combination of 'tar' and 'macadam', where 'tar' refers to the sticky black substance and 'macadam' refers to a type of road surface.
Historical Evolution
'tarmac' was coined in the early 20th century as a brand name for a type of road surface.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred specifically to the patented road surface, but now it is used more generally to describe any tar-based road surface.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a material used for surfacing roads or other outdoor areas, consisting of crushed rock mixed with tar.
The airplane taxied down the tarmac before takeoff.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/15 23:37