pavement

noun

pave·​ment ˈpāv-mənt 

1

: a paved surface: such as

a

: the artificially covered surface of a public thoroughfare

b

chiefly British : sidewalk

2

: the material with which something is paved

3

: something that suggests a pavement (as in flatness, hardness, and extent of surface)

Examples of pavement in a Sentence

He stopped the car just off the pavement.

The summer heat rose off the pavement.

Recent Examples on the Web

The pavement under my feet was something. —Literary Hub, 15 May 2026

The work aims to connect planned roundabouts and install a waterline, pavement, curb and gutter, sidewalk and a drainage system, according to a March 5 North Carolina Department of Transportation news release. —Joe Marusak may 14, Charlotte Observer, 14 May 2026

These Italian suede sneakers feature a durable gum sole that’s perfect for a long day of walking without tripping over cobblestones or uneven pavement. —Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 14 May 2026

Upgraded signage and pavement markings also aim to improve visibility. —Megan Vaz, Sun Sentinel, 14 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin pavimentum, from pavire

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pavement

• hit the pavement
• pavement café
• pounded the streets/pavement
• pound the streets/pavement

Rhymes for pavement

• enslavement

Kids Definition

pavement

noun

pave·​ment ˈpāv-mənt 

1

: a paved surface (as of a street)

2

: the material with which something is paved