basalt

noun

: a dark gray to black dense to fine-grained igneous rock that consists of basic plagioclase, augite, and usually magnetite
basaltic adjective

Examples of basalt in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Mineral analysis revealed that the basalt is of local origin. Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2024 The test drilling got through a lot of sediment and then 13 meters of basalt, but the mantle remained inviolate. Matthew Wills, JSTOR Daily, 29 Nov. 2024 Eastern Oregon's rugged landscape of volcanic basalt, formed millions of years ago by massive lava flows, has long nurtured fertile soil for farming and ranching. Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024 Within just two years, the CO₂ reacts with the basalt to form stable carbonate minerals, effectively locking away the carbon for thousands of years. Rob Van Straten, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for basalt 

Word History

Etymology

Latin basaltes, manuscript variant of basanites touchstone, from Greek basanitēs (lithos), from basanos touchstone, from Egyptian bḫnw

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of basalt was in 1601

Dictionary Entries Near basalt

Cite this Entry

“Basalt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/basalt. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

basalt

noun
: a dark gray to black usually fine-grained igneous rock
basaltic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on basalt

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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