geothermal
jee-oh-THUR-muhl
/ˌdʒiː.oʊˈθɜːr.məl/
Relating to or produced by the internal heat of the earth.
Uniquely independent of weather or daylight cycles because heat radiates continuously from deep sub-surface geological layers.
The story behind the word. Coined in the 19th century by combining Greek 'gē' (earth) and 'therme' (heat). Early industrial uses emerged in Tuscany, Italy, where natural steam vents were first harnessed to power commercial machinery.
Word relationships
- terrestrial-heat: Descriptive phrase indicating underground thermal energy, whereas 'geothermal' is the formal scientific adjective.
Commonly confused with
- hydroelectric: 'Geothermal' uses heat from within the Earth; 'hydroelectric' uses the kinetic motion of flowing water.
Word family
- geothermally (adverb): In a geothermal manner.
Collocations
- geothermal energy
- geothermal plant
- geothermal heat pump
- geothermal gradient
Example sentences
- "Engineers drilled deep subterranean wells to tap into natural geothermal reservoirs and produce continuous steam for power turbines." Geological Science
Memory hook
GEO (Earth) + THERM (Thermometer/Heat) = Heat directly from the Earth's belly. Earth's internal furnace.
When not to use
Do not use for atmospheric heat or heat generated by surface combustion.
Fun facts
- The ancient Romans used geothermal heat from hot springs to heat public baths and subterranean living spaces.
Related words
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