slate

slate

slate¹ [slāt]

n.

[ME sclate < OFr esclate, fem. of esclat: see SLAT¹]

1. a hard, fine-grained, metamorphic rock, typically formed from shale, that cleaves naturally into thin, smooth-surfaced layers

2. a thin piece of slate or slatelike material, esp. one used as a roofing tile or as a tablet for writing on with chalk

3. the bluish-gray color of most slate: also slate blue

☆ 4. a list of candidates proposed for nomination or election

vt.

slated, slating

1. to cover with slate

☆ 2. to put on a list or designate, as for candidacy, appointment, engagement, etc.; choose or schedule

——————

a clean slate

a record showing no marks of discredit, dishonor, etc.

slate² [slāt]

vt.

slated, slating [prob. < ON sleita, strife (akin to OE slætan, to bait, torment)] [Informal, Chiefly Brit.] Chiefly Brit. Informal

1. to punish severely, as by thrashing

2. to scold or criticize harshly