Meaning of the word tar in English

What does tar mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

tar

US /tɑːr/

UK /tɑːr/

Noun

a dark, thick, flammable liquid distilled from wood or coal, consisting of a mixture of hydrocarbons, resins, and alcohols. It is used for waterproofing and as a preservative.

Example:

•

The road was paved with hot tar.

•

Sailors used tar to seal the wooden ships.

Synonym:

pitch bitumen asphalt

a sailor

Example:

•

The old tar spun tales of the high seas.

•

He was a seasoned old tar, having sailed for decades.

Synonym:

sailor seaman mariner

Verb

to cover or treat with tar

Example:

•

They decided to tar the roof to prevent leaks.

•

The old boat was regularly tarred to protect its hull.

Synonym:

coat cover seal

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