slate Definition
- 1a fine-grained gray, green, or bluish metamorphic rock easily split into smooth, flat pieces
- 2a flat piece of slate used for writing on, typically framed in wood, formerly used in schools
- 3a list of candidates for election to a post or office, typically a group sharing a set of political views
Using slate: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "slate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The roof was made of slate tiles.
Example
He wrote his name on the slate with chalk.
Example
The party has announced its slate of candidates for the upcoming election.
slate Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with slate
Example
After the divorce, she wanted a clean slate and moved to a new city.
Example
The drinks were put on the slate and paid at the end of the month.
Example
After the company's bankruptcy, the new CEO decided to wipe the slate clean and rebrand the business.
Origins of slate
from Old French 'esclate', feminine past participle of 'esclater', meaning 'to break'
Summary: slate in Brief
The term 'slate' [sleɪt] refers to a fine-grained rock that can be split into flat pieces, a flat piece of slate used for writing, and a list of candidates for election. It is used in phrases like 'clean slate,' meaning a fresh start, and 'on the slate,' meaning recorded as a debt. 'Slate' is also used to describe a timetable or schedule.