Debree or Debris: Which Is Correct?

"Debree" is a misspelling of "debris," which is a noun that means scattered pieces or fragments of waste, rubbish, or remains that result from the destruction, decay, or disintegration of something larger. It can encompass various types of discarded materials or broken objects.

For example, when a building is demolished, debris will scatter in all directions, including broken bricks, shattered glass, twisted metal, and chunks of concrete, creating a hazardous and messy aftermath that can require thorough cleanup and removal.

"Debris" is challenging to spell because it is pronounced differently from how it is spelled; "debris" has a silent "s" you would not pronounce, and the last "i" is pronounced like "ee" instead of like a single soft "i." "Debris" is borrowed from the French "débris," and because words in French are pronounced differently than in English, when the word is adopted into English, the French-based pronunciation can make the word confusing to spell.

Example sentences

After the tornado passed through the town, there was debris scattered everywhere, including broken trees and damaged buildings.
The construction site was filled with debris such as concrete chunks, steel rods, and discarded building materials.
The spaceship's reentry caused the burning debris to fall into the ocean.
The cleanup crew worked diligently to remove the debris left behind by the hurricane.
The archaeologists carefully sifted through the debris to uncover ancient artifacts buried beneath the ruins.
It's important to clear the road of debris to prevent accidents and maintain safe driving conditions.
The explosion sent debris flying in all directions, causing damage to nearby structures.
The firefighters had to navigate through thick smoke and falling debris to reach the burning building.
The ocean currents carried the plastic debris to distant shores, causing environmental problems.
The landslide left a trail of debris down the mountainside, blocking the road for days.

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