English · Nature & Environment
volcano
/vɒlˈkeɪ.noʊ/
[/vɒlˈkeɪ.noʊ/]
molten-rock mountain
Intermediatenoun
Definition
A mountain with an opening through which molten rock, ash, and gas erupt from below.
Example
The volcano sent a towering column of ash into the sky, darkening the surrounding region.
The volcano sent a towering column of ash into the sky, darkening the surrounding region.
Etymology
From Italian 'vulcano', from Vulcan, the Roman god of fire.
How & Where It’s Used
Named after Vulcan; describes both the mountain and the eruption site.