asphalt etymology

Etymology

The word "asphalt" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "ásfaltos" (ἄσφαλτος), meaning "natural bitumen".

Meaning

Asphalt is a sticky, black or brown semi-solid form of petroleum that is used in paving roads, roofing, waterproofing, and other applications. It is a type of bituminous material.

Origin

The word "asphalt" has been used to describe the natural occurrence of bitumen since ancient times. Bitumen is a viscous, black liquid or semi-solid that occurs naturally in the earth's crust. It is composed of a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, sulfur compounds, and other organic molecules.

The Ancient Greeks and Romans used asphalt for a variety of purposes, including paving roads, sealing ships, and waterproofing buildings. The word "asphalt" was first introduced into the English language in the 16th century.

Modern Usage

Today, asphalt is the most widely used paving material in the world. It is also used in a variety of other applications, such as roofing, waterproofing, and sealing.

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