Note: The translation for this entry is currently under quality review. Some content is temporarily displayed in English only.
rocks
/ɹɒks/
As a noun, it evokes images of permanence, hardness, and raw nature. While 'stones' often implies smaller, loose pieces, 'rocks' suggests larger, more imposing geological formations.
In its physical verb form, the word conveys a rhythmic, repetitive motion. This can range from the soothing, gentle movement used to calm an infant to the chaotic, unstable swaying of a vessel in rough seas.
As slang, it carries a high-energy, positive connotation of excellence and confidence. It is casual and enthusiastic, typically used to praise performance or style.
Countable when referring to individual stones you can pick up or climb over ('The beach is covered in smooth rocks'). Uncountable when discussing the geological substance of the earth's crust ('The cliff consists mostly of volcanic rock').
💬Casual Conversation
This new AI-driven workflow really rocks. Total game changer.
I'm drowning in tickets here. Please just get back to the office.
Meanings
Examples
The children spent the afternoon skipping rocks across the lake.
Small rocks littered the path leading up to the ancient temple.
He gently rocks the infant in his arms until the baby drifts off.
She rocks the chair back and forth while thinking about her future.
The ship rocks steadily in the harbor during the light breeze.
I can't believe we won the championship. Our team totally rocks.
Man, this new guitar riff really rocks.
The ground rocks slightly as the heavy train passes by.
Those mountains are made of volcanic rocks from millions of years ago.
Idioms & Sayings
on the rocks
in a state of collapse or failure, especially regarding a relationship
Their marriage has been on the rocks for several years now.
on the rocks
served with ice cubes
I would like a glass of scotch on the rocks, please.
Etymology
Derived from the Old English stān for the mineral sense, though the specific term rock emerged from the Middle English roke, likely influenced by Old French roche, which traces back to the Vulgar Latin rocca. The verbal sense of moving to and fro evolved later, mirroring the physical instability of a stone balanced on its end, while the modern slang usage emerged in the mid-20th century from the high-energy associations of rock and roll music.