DictionarymarbleSmall glass ball
noun

marble

A small glass ball used in games or decoration.

A blue marble rolls across the floor.

Etymology

The stone name was applied to small playing balls, some of which were made from stone. The familiar name persisted when glass became a common material.

More examples

  • The children traded marbles after school.
  • He kept a favorite marble in his pocket.
  • Several glass marbles filled the jar.

Forms

marble · marbles

Similar words

ball
The broad round object.
bead
A small object usually pierced for stringing.