Pronunciation: [pˈɛbə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "pebble" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈpɛbəl/. The first sound is a "p" sound, followed by an "eh" sound as in "pet," then a "b" sound, an "uh" sound as in "but," and finally an "l" sound. This five-letter word is used to refer to a small stone or rock that is rounded by water or weathering. The spelling of "pebble" is consistent with English pronunciation rules and is easy to remember.
A pebble is a small, typically rounded stone that is usually smooth and has been shaped by the erosion caused by water or other natural processes. It is generally smaller than a rock and can range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in diameter. Pebbles are commonly found in natural environments such as rivers, lakes, and beaches, where they are often collected as decorative objects, used for landscaping, or skipped across the water's surface for recreational purposes.
Characterized by their smooth texture, pebbles are formed through the continuous rolling and rubbing against one another or against other surfaces like sand or gravel. They are typically composed of various geological minerals such as quartz, granite, limestone, or basalt. Due to their small size and smooth shape, pebbles are lightweight and easily transportable by natural forces like water currents or wind.
In terms of their importance in nature, pebbles play a vital role in preserving ecosystems by providing habitats for various organisms, including insects, small invertebrates, and algae. They also contribute to the overall stability of riverbeds and shorelines by acting as a protective barrier against erosion.
In the realm of human usage, pebbles are widely employed in landscaping, gardening, and construction projects. They are often used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens, walkways, and driveways. Additionally, pebbles are sometimes employed as a raw material in the production of concrete, where they provide both aesthetic and functional benefits.
A rolled stone from the bed of a river or from the sea-beach; a small round stone; transparent or colourless rock-crystal.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pebble" originated from the Middle English term "pebel" or "pibel", which was derived from the Old English word "papol-stān". The Old English term was composed of "papol", meaning "small stone" or "pebble", and "stān", meaning "stone". The word has Germanic roots and is related to the Dutch word "keibel" and the German word "Kiesel". Ultimately, its origins can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "kīsilaz", which also meant "pebble" or "gravel".
