Stones

Plural of 'stone'. A stone is a naturally occurring solid non-metallic mineral matter, a piece of rock, typically small enough to be held in the hand. It can also refer to a hard mass formed within the body, such as a gallstone or kidney stone, and figuratively represents a person of exceptional hardness or lack of feeling. 'Stones' can also symbolize a building block or a marker, whether literal or metaphorical, indicating history, memory, or a foundation. It carries the connotation of something sturdy, lasting, and often elemental, representing the grounding forces of the earth or of human experience.

Stones meaning with examples

• The children spent the afternoon skipping stones across the tranquil lake, their laughter echoing in the crisp air. Each flat, smooth stone they chose needed the perfect angle and velocity to glide successfully. Their joy and focus were as captivating as the water's reflections. The competition was fierce, each attempting to beat the other's stone count.
• Archaeologists carefully unearthed ancient stones, meticulously documenting the intricate carvings that told stories of a forgotten civilization. The stones, weathered by centuries of sun and rain, offered tangible links to the past, giving a glimpse into the people who lived and thrived. Each stone provided further insight into their culture.
• After a difficult diagnosis, the patient developed a fear of kidney stones. The doctor provided clear details of the diagnosis, which would likely be treatable and relatively painless. The thought of them, small, solid masses of mineral deposits in the urinary system, was causing great emotional distress, making her think of them every day.
• In times of political unrest, protesters often hurled stones at authorities, using them as symbols of rebellion and anger. The stones, though small, were used to represent the fury of the people. The actions of the protestors were condemned as a violent display of defiance and a potential danger to the public.