lava
LAH-vuh
ˈlɑːvə
Hot molten or semifluid rock erupted from a volcano or fissure, or solid rock resulting from cooling of this.
Crucially, lava is on the surface after eruption.
The story behind the word. The word "lava" comes from the Neapolitan Italian dialect, specifically from the word "lava," which originally meant "a stream" or "an overflow." It was first used in this geological sense to describe the streams of molten rock flowing from Mount Vesuvius. It perfectly captures the image of fiery rock overflowing and streaming down a volcano's slopes.
Word relationships
- molten rock: General term, but 'lava' specifies it's on the surface.
- solid rock: The opposite state of matter.
Commonly confused with
- magma: Lava is molten rock on the Earth's surface, while magma is molten rock underground.
Collocations
- lava flow
- molten lava
- cooling lava
- volcanic lava
- hardened lava
Example sentences
- "The slow-moving lava flow engulfed several homes, turning them to ash." News report on volcanic eruption.
- "After cooling, the black, glassy lava formed new land along the coastline." Geological description.
Memory hook
'LAH-vuh' sounds like 'love-a,' as in 'I love a good volcano, but stay away from the lava!' Volcano's overflow
When not to use
Do not use for molten rock still underground.
Fun facts
- The temperature of lava can range from 700°C to 1200°C (1292°F to 2192°F).
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