Rubbish

Definition

The word "rubbish" refers to waste material or items that are no longer useful (noun). It can also mean nonsense or something of poor quality (informal noun or adjective).

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrʌb.ɪʃ/
• Respelling: RUB-ish

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrʌb.ɪʃ/
• Respelling: RUB-ish

Etymology

The word "rubbish" originates from the Old French "robousse," meaning "broken stones or rubble," derived from "robos" (broken material). It entered Middle English in the 14th century, initially describing debris and later expanding to refer to general waste or nonsensical ideas.

Derivatives

• Rubbishy (adjective)
• Rubbishing (verb, informal)
• Rubbisher (noun, rare)
• Unrubbished (adjective, rare)
• Rubbishness (noun)

Synonyms

• Trash
• Garbage
• Nonsense

Antonyms

• Treasure
• Value
• Sense

Usage

The term "rubbish" is used both literally and figuratively. For example: "The bin is full of rubbish," or "What you’re saying is complete rubbish!"

Related Terms

• Refuse: Waste or trash.
• Debris: Scattered fragments, typically of waste.
• Litter: Trash left in public spaces.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Waste material or items that are discarded: Refers to trash or things no longer of use.
  • Example: "Please take out the rubbish before it piles up."
• Nonsense or foolish talk (informal): Refers to ideas, statements, or arguments that lack sense or validity.
  • Example: "That theory is absolute rubbish."

Adjective

• Of poor quality or useless (informal): Describes something that lacks value or utility.
  • Example: "This is a rubbish excuse for being late."