Stone-strewn

Stone-strewn describes a surface, area, or landscape that is covered or scattered with stones. It implies a sense of untidiness, roughness, or naturalness, often suggesting a rugged or difficult terrain. The stones can vary in size, from small pebbles to large boulders, contributing to the overall impression. The term is frequently used in descriptions of outdoor environments, such as beaches, trails, and mountainsides, or even artificial constructions meant to look natural. The density of the stones can also vary, ranging from a light scattering to a densely packed coverage. This descriptive adjective evokes a visual image of the prevalence of stones, implicitly suggesting potential obstacles or challenges. The word's use lends itself to conveying a visual sensory experience or the depiction of wild terrain, reflecting nature's own characteristics.

Stone-strewn meaning with examples

• The ancient path, initially paved with flagstones, had deteriorated over time. The path now presented a stone-strewn surface, challenging hikers. Loose gravel and small rocks made each step unpredictable. The erosion of the centuries revealed the underlying rock creating a rugged walking experience.
• Following the storm's retreat, the once-pristine beach was now stone-strewn. Waves had deposited a chaotic array of rocks, shells, and driftwood along the shoreline. Small, smooth river stones joined larger jagged pieces of granite and sandstone, making it less inviting for casual strolls.
• The ruins of the old castle, a relic from a forgotten era, was surrounded by a stone-strewn courtyard. Weathered remnants of walls and fallen columns lay scattered among the larger building stones. The scene evoked a feeling of age, loss, and the passage of time, and the stone-strewn state told of its gradual demise.
• The artist's installation, a commentary on the natural world, featured a stone-strewn landscape. The artist meticulously arranged various sizes of stone to simulate a riverbed. The deliberately artificial yet raw environment offered a moment of reflection on the influence of nature and our relationship with it.