rhizoverbBeta
DictionarytileSurface covering
noun / verb

tile

TYLE/taɪl/

A flat piece used to cover a surface, or to cover a surface with such pieces.

The thin tile rests against a small area of matching floor tiles.

A single thin square ceramic floor tile rests tilted against a small section of matching installed tiles, making its flat face, slim edge, and covering function visible together.
Etymology
tileLatinroof tile

Latin tegula named a roof tile and was derived from tegere, “to cover.” The name thus emphasizes its covering function, which also fits tiles used on floors and walls.

In context

Family Handyman2:51
Lay it flat on the tile and pull it slowly across the surface at a diagonal to the joints. Flip it over and repeat. Rinse out the sponge again and continue until the floor is done.
How to Grout Tile Floor Like a Pro

More examples

  • They tiled the kitchen wall.
  • She is tiling the entryway.
  • Several tiles needed replacing.

Forms

tile · tiles · tiled · tiling

Similar words

slab
Usually a larger or thicker flat piece.
shingle
An overlapping roofing piece, often of wood or asphalt.