detritus

[dɪˈtraɪtəs]

detritus Definition

• 1. waste or debris of any kind
• 2. fragments of rock that have been worn away

Using detritus: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "detritus" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The beach was littered with detritus from the storm.

• Example

  The river carried a lot of detritus downstream.

• Example

  The old building was demolished, leaving behind piles of detritus.

detritus Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for detritus

• debris
• rubble
• waste
• garbage
• scrap

Phrases with detritus

• cultural detritus

  elements of culture that are considered to be of little value or significance

  Example

  The internet is full of cultural detritus, like memes and viral videos.

• detritus feeders

  organisms that consume dead organic matter, such as bacteria and fungi

  Example

  Earthworms and dung beetles are examples of detritus feeders.

• detritus of war

  the remains of war, such as destroyed buildings and abandoned equipment

  Example

  The city was left in ruins, with the detritus of war scattered everywhere.

Origins of detritus

from Latin 'dētrītus', meaning 'worn away'

📌

Summary: detritus in Brief

Detritus [dɪˈtraɪtəs] refers to waste or debris of any kind, including fragments of rock that have been worn away. Examples include litter on a beach or rubble from a demolished building. The term also extends to phrases like 'cultural detritus,' referring to elements of culture that are considered insignificant, and 'detritus feeders,' organisms that consume dead organic matter.