pumice
PUM-iss
/ˈpʌmɪs/
A very light, porous volcanic rock used as an abrasive for removing rough skin and calluses.
Pumice is specifically used on thickened, dead skin (like on the heels) and should never be used on delicate skin or the nail plate itself.
The story behind the word. Pumice comes from the Latin word 'pumex' (genitive 'pumicis'), which is closely related to the Latin word for foam ('spuma'). This is because pumice is formed from frothy, gas-rich volcanic lava that cools rapidly, leaving behind a porous, foam-like rock.
Word relationships
- volcanic abrasive: Volcanic abrasive is a generic description, while pumice refers to the specific porous rock type.
Commonly confused with
- emery board: Pumice is a porous stone used for skin exfoliation, while an emery board is a flat abrasive tool used for shaping nails.
Word family
- pumiceous (adjective): Having the texture or appearance of pumice.
- pumiced (adjective): Smoothed or polished with pumice.
Collocations
- pumice stone
- pumice scrub
- natural pumice
- exfoliate with pumice
Example sentences
- "After soaking your feet, use a wet pumice stone to gently scrub away dry calluses on your heels." A guide to achieving soft feet at home.
Memory hook
PUMice is used to PUMmel (scrub) the rough skin on your feet. Volcanic foot smoother.
When not to use
Do not use pumice on open wounds, sensitive skin, or face, as its abrasive texture will cause damage.
Fun facts
- Pumice is the only rock that can float on water because of the thousands of tiny air bubbles trapped inside it.
- In ancient Rome, pumice was used in toothpaste formulas to help scrub stains off teeth.
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