terrazzo: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Neutral, with strong technical/architectural association.
Quick answer
What does “terrazzo” mean?
A type of flooring material made by embedding chips of marble, quartz, granite, or glass in a cement or epoxy resin matrix, which is then ground and polished smooth.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of flooring material made by embedding chips of marble, quartz, granite, or glass in a cement or epoxy resin matrix, which is then ground and polished smooth.
The technique, craft, or industry of creating such flooring. It can also refer to the style or aesthetic associated with this material, often seen in mid-century modern architecture and design.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is identical in spelling and meaning. No significant regional variation in usage. The craft and material are known internationally.
Connotations
In both varieties, often connotes durability, mid-20th century design, institutional or commercial settings (e.g., schools, hospitals, lobbies), and a certain retro aesthetic that has seen a resurgence in popularity.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects, primarily encountered in architectural, design, construction, and renovation contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “terrazzo” in a Sentence
[NP:subject] is made of terrazzo.They installed [NP:object] terrazzo.The [NP:head] has a terrazzo [NP:complement].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “terrazzo” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The craftsmen will terrazzo the entire ground floor.
- This workshop teaches you how to terrazzo a small tabletop.
American English
- They decided to terrazzo the lobby for a classic look.
- You can terrazzo over the old concrete slab.
adverb
British English
- [No standard adverbial use]
American English
- [No standard adverbial use]
adjective
British English
- The terrazzo worktop was surprisingly affordable.
- They sell terrazzo planters in various sizes.
American English
- She chose a terrazzo pattern for the shower walls.
- The building's terrazzo staircase is a historic feature.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in property listings, renovation quotes, and architectural services: 'The commercial unit features original terrazzo flooring.'
Academic
Found in art history, architecture, and materials science texts discussing 20th-century building materials and conservation.
Everyday
Used in home improvement and interior design discussions: 'We're thinking of terrazzo for the kitchen.'
Technical
Core term in construction, flooring, and historic preservation trades, specifying types (cementitious vs. epoxy), aggregate size, and finishing methods.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “terrazzo”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “terrazzo”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “terrazzo”
- Misspelling: 'terazzo', 'terazzo', 'terrazzoo'.
- Mispronunciation: stressing the first syllable /ˈtɛrəzoʊ/.
- Using as a countable noun incorrectly: 'They laid beautiful terrazzos.' (Use 'terrazzo flooring' or 'terrazzo floors').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While most common for flooring, terrazzo is also used for countertops, wall cladding, staircases, and even furniture.
Traditional cement-based terrazzo installation is labour-intensive and can be costly. Modern thin-set or epoxy systems can be more affordable. It is considered a long-term investment due to its extreme durability.
Mosaic involves arranging individual tiles (tesserae) to form a pattern. Terrazzo involves casting a mixture of chips and binder as a monolithic surface, which is then ground to reveal the aggregate randomly, creating a speckled effect.
Like any cementitious or rigid material, it can crack if the substrate moves or settles improperly. Proper installation with control joints is crucial to minimise this risk. Epoxy terrazzo is more flexible and less prone to cracking.
A type of flooring material made by embedding chips of marble, quartz, granite, or glass in a cement or epoxy resin matrix, which is then ground and polished smooth.
Terrazzo is usually neutral, with strong technical/architectural association. in register.
Terrazzo: in British English it is pronounced /təˈrætsəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /təˈrɑːtsoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms specific to 'terrazzo']”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: TERRAZZO has a Z-Z in the middle, like the buzzing sound of a polisher on a ZZZ-mooth floor made of chips set in ZZement.
Conceptual Metaphor
SURFACE IS A COMPOSITE (A unified whole is made of diverse, distinct pieces embedded within it).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary characteristic of terrazzo?