DictionarycobRounded lump
noun

cob

A compact rounded lump.

She rolls a small cob of clay between her palms.

Etymology

Cob has long named a compact lump, although its deeper origin is uncertain. That solid, rounded image also helps explain its uses for a sturdy horse and earthen building material.

More examples

  • A few cobs of coal remain in the bin.
  • He crushes a dry cob of dirt under his boot.
  • The baker serves a small cob of bread with soup.

Forms

cob · cobs

Similar words

lump
A general mass, not necessarily compact or rounded.
clod
Specifically a lump of earth, often dry or hardened.
chunk
A thick, solid piece, often broken from something larger.