- 1[uncountable, countable] the hard, solid material that forms part of the surface of the earth and some other planets They drilled through several layers of rock to reach the oil. a cave with striking rock formations (= shapes made naturally from rock) The tunnel was blasted out of solid rock. volcanic/igneous/sedimentary, etc. rocks
- 2[countable] a mass of rock standing above the earth's surface or in the ocean the Rock of Gibraltar The ship crashed into the rocks at Point Joe, the scene of several shipwrecks.
- 3[countable] a large single piece of rock They clambered over the rocks at the foot of the cliff. The sign said “Danger: falling rocks.” stone
- 4[countable] a small stone Protesters pelted the soldiers with rocks. music
- 5(also rock music) [uncountable] a type of loud popular music with a strong beat developed in the 1960s, and played on electric guitars and drums punk rock a rock band/star jewel
- 6[countable, usually plural] (informal) a precious stone, especially a diamond person
- 7[countable, usually singular] a person who is emotionally strong and who you can rely on He is my rock.
- 1a relationship or business that is on the rocks is having difficulties and is likely to fail soon Sue's marriage is on the rocks.
- 2(of drinks) served with pieces of ice but no water Scotch on the rocks
hard material
in a situation where you have to choose between two things, both of which are unpleasant
extremely steady and calm; that you can rely on
Check pronunciation: rock