Literal meaning:
* A physical rock located within a flowing stream of water. This is the most straightforward interpretation.
Figurative meaning:
* Something that is stable and unchanging in the face of change and adversity. Like a rock that remains steadfast in the current of a stream, this could refer to a person, an idea, or a belief.
* Something that hinders or obstructs progress. The rock in the stream could represent a challenge or obstacle that slows down or prevents forward movement.
Example sentences:
* Literal: "The children skipped over the smooth, grey rock in the stream."
* Figurative: "He's a rock in the stream of life, always calm and steady."
* Figurative: "The company's rigid policies are a rock in the stream of innovation."
To understand the intended meaning of "a rock in a stream," you need to consider the surrounding context and the author's purpose.