pitch

//pɪtʃ//

Nouns
C1

Translation

pitch

Definition

Pitch is a thick, black, sticky substance derived from coal tar, wood tar, or petroleum, used historically for waterproofing, sealing, and surfacing roads or roofs. In modern contexts, it often refers to bitumen or asphalt, a viscous material that hardens upon cooling and is applied in construction and industrial applications. This meaning of pitch is distinct from its other uses (like a sales pitch or a baseball pitch) and is associated with dark, resinous, or tarry materials.

Example

  • The workers applied hot pitch to seal the cracks in the roof.

  • Ancient ships were often waterproofed with pitch to prevent leaks.

  • The smell of pitch filled the air as the road crew resurfaced the highway.

  • He accidentally stepped in a puddle of pitch and ruined his boots.

  • The barrel was coated with pitch to preserve the wine inside.

  • Pitch was used as a binding agent in traditional brick-making processes.

  • The old wooden fence was treated with pitch to resist rot and insects.

  • During the industrial revolution, pitch became a key material for paving streets.

  • The artist used pitch to create a glossy, dark finish on the sculpture.

  • Residue from the pitch stuck to the tools, making them difficult to clean.

Synonyms

tar
bitumen
asphalt
resin

Other meanings

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