WordGarden.iocement
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /sɪmˈɛnt/
US
- /səˈmɛnt/
Meanings
Noun
a powder or paste that hardens and binds building materials together
a substance used as a strong glue or binder
something that unites or holds people or things together
Verb
to make something firmly established or more secure
to fasten, cover, or fix something with cement
Beyond the definition
Think of cement as the glue that holds things together—literally. It's a powder mixed with water that hardens and binds materials, and it's a key ingredient in concrete and mortar. But "cement" can also mean something that figuratively binds things together, like a shared belief or a strong agreement. A good friendship is often cemented by years of trust and support.
Cement isn't just about construction; it's about making connections solid and lasting. You might say a successful negotiation "cemented" the deal between two companies, meaning it finalized and secured their agreement. It can even describe something that firmly establishes a reputation: "His bravery cemented his place in history."
Cement is most commonly known as a fine powder mixed with water to create a paste that hardens and binds materials together—think of the foundation of a building or the sidewalk under your feet. Mixed with sand and gravel (aggregate), it forms concrete, which is essential for modern construction; mixed with sand, it can be used to make mortar for laying bricks and blocks. The word comes from the Roman caementum, referring to rough or chipped stone used in construction, reflecting its early connection to building materials. Example: "They used cement to repair the cracked wall."
However, "cement" extends beyond just physical materials. It can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that strengthens a relationship or solidifies an agreement. If two people overcome a difficult challenge together, it might cement their bond, making it stronger and more resilient. A shared experience can cement a friendship just as effectively as any contract.
To say something is "cemented" means it's firmly established, unshakeable, or irreversible. For instance: "The new law cemented the company's power." You could also use it to describe a reputation: "Her dedication to her craft cemented her status as a leading artist."
So, whether you're talking about building structures or strengthening bonds, "cement" represents the act of joining things together in a lasting and secure way. It's about creating foundations—both literal and figurative—that can withstand the test of time.
Examples
- 1
Building material
We need more cement before we can finish the patio.
- 2
Wet cement
Don’t step on the wet cement.
- 3
Fixing posts
They cemented the fence posts into the ground.
- 4
Friendship
Going through that difficult year together cemented their friendship.
- Patterncement a friendship/relationship
make it much stronger and more lasting
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
International relations
The new trade deal helped cement ties between the two countries.
- Patterncement ties between A and B
make their relationship more secure
- 6
Reputation
That final win cemented her reputation as the team’s best player.
- Patterncement a reputation as + role/status
make that image or status feel fixed
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- cementnounverb
Forms
- cementedpast tenseverbnoun
- cementing-ing formverbnoun
- cementspluralnounverb