ballast
Translation
ballast
Examples
The ship took on ballast to improve stability.
The ship took on ballast to improve stability.
Gravel is used as ballast for railway tracks.
Gravel is used as ballast for railway tracks.
Grammar Patterns
((as sth.)) ballast Gravel is used as ballast for railway tracks.
Similar Words
Synonyms: weight, counterweight, stabilizer
Etymology
From Middle Low German, possibly related to 'bare last' meaning 'mere load'.
Memory Tips
Imagine a hot air 'ball'oon needing a 'last' minute weight to stay stable.