variants
or less commonly asphaltum
as-ˈfȯl-təm 
especially British -ˈfal-
1
: a dark bituminous substance that is found in natural beds and is also obtained as a residue in petroleum refining and that consists chiefly of hydrocarbons
2
: an asphaltic composition used for pavements and as a waterproof cement
Examples of asphalt in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Lilit Marcus, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2025
The work includes new curb and gutter for the sidewalk, as well as an ADA ramp, concrete driveways, removal and replacement of wood and chain link fencing, minor asphalt work and striping, according to Donna Durckel, communications officer for the County of San Diego Land Use and Environment Group.
—Regina Elling, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Oct. 2025
AFAR Media, 14 July 2025
As is typical behavior for the animals, the majority of holes are in fairly close proximity to the pond, but Hart noticed one of particular concern which seemed to be leading to a burrow beneath the parks asphalt walking track.
—Patrick Camp The Cullman Times, al, 7 July 2023
See All Example Sentences for asphalt
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Noun
This isn’t just any old piece of Manhattan asphalt.
—Lilit Marcus, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2025
The work includes new curb and gutter for the sidewalk, as well as an ADA ramp, concrete driveways, removal and replacement of wood and chain link fencing, minor asphalt work and striping, according to Donna Durckel, communications officer for the County of San Diego Land Use and Environment Group.
—Regina Elling, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Oct. 2025
Verb
The home was designed for the Walter, who had become wealthy asphalting rural roads.
—AFAR Media, 14 July 2025
As is typical behavior for the animals, the majority of holes are in fairly close proximity to the pond, but Hart noticed one of particular concern which seemed to be leading to a burrow beneath the parks asphalt walking track.
—Patrick Camp The Cullman Times, al, 7 July 2023
See All Example Sentences for asphalt
Cite this Entry
“Asphalt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/asphalt. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
asphalt
1 of 2 noun
as·phalt
ˈas-ˌfȯlt
1
: a brown to black substance that is found in natural beds or obtained as something left in petroleum or coal-tar refining and that consists chiefly of compounds of carbon and hydrogen
2
: any of various compositions of asphalt having different uses (as for pavement or for waterproof cement or paint)
asphalt
2 of 2 verb
: to cover with asphalt
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