Clod

A clod is a lump or mass, typically of earth or clay, that may be used in agriculture or gardening. It can also refer to a dull or awkward person, often characterized by a lack of grace or intelligence. In both uses, 'clod' conveys a sense of weightiness or a lack of refinement, making it a versatile term in describing physical objects or human behavior.

Clod meaning with examples

• After the heavy rain, the gardener found a large clod of mud had formed in his flower bed, stifling the growth of his plants. He bent down, using a shovel to break apart the stubborn mass, hoping to restore good drainage and allow his flowers to flourish once more. Each thrust of the shovel loosened the stubborn clod, but it was clear that he had to be patient with the soil.
• Tom, a self-proclaimed clod when it came to dancing, often chose to remain on the sidelines during parties. Preferring to watch rather than embarrass himself, he admired the graceful movements of others, all while nursing a drink in his hand. His friends, who were more rhythmically inclined, often encouraged him to join, reminding him that everyone needs a little fun and clumsiness in their lives.
• The clod of grass that had been uprooted during the storm lay discarded on the lawn, a reminder of nature's unpredictability. As the homeowner surveyed the damage, he realized it was more than just a clod; it had uprooted a series of memories, from picnics beneath the tree to kids playing in the backyard. The clod symbolized how resilience also often comes from loss and the need to rebuild.
• During the lecture, the professor described the archaeological significance of a clod found at the dig site, which contained remnants of ancient artifacts. This simple clod of soil, once disregarded, turned out to be a crucial piece in understanding the daily lives of people from centuries ago. Students were mesmerized, realizing that even a small, unassuming clod can hold stories waiting to be uncovered.