Paving means covering a surface with a hard, durable material to make it smooth and suitable for walking, driving, or other activities. When workers pave a road, they might lay down asphalt or concrete to create a flat, sturdy surface that cars can drive on easily. Driveways, parking lots, and sidewalks all get paved to make them more useful and long-lasting than bare dirt or grass would be.

You'll often hear about paving stones or paving bricks, which are individual pieces fitted together to create walkways or patios. Ancient Romans were masters at paving roads, building thousands of miles of stone-paved highways that connected their empire and lasted for centuries.

People also use paving figuratively when they talk about preparing the way for something. A scientist whose early research helps later breakthroughs might be paving the way for future discoveries. When you practice your multiplication tables thoroughly, you're paving the way for success in algebra. The phrase “the road to hell is paved with good intentions” means that having good intentions isn't enough if your actions lead to bad results.