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.
This led to the lunar mare basalt — dark volcanic rock — wrinkling like the skin of a shriveling old apple. Keith Cooper, Space.com, 3 Feb. 2025 Hexagonal basalt columns shaped by cooling lava that erupted over 60 million years ago shape the dramatic coastline. Erica Zazo, Outside Online, 9 Jan. 2025 In the northeastern part of the tell, archaeologists discovered some burials, one covered by a large, rectangular basalt slab. Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 27 Jan. 2025 Set in caves, perching on cliffs, or carved into basalt, these spiritual sites span many faiths and locations. Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 23 Dec. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Basalt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/basalt. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

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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