lava

noun

la·​va ˈlä-və How to pronounce lava (audio) ˈla- How to pronounce lava (audio)
: molten rock that issues from a volcano or from a fissure in the surface of a planet (such as earth) or moon
also : such rock that has cooled and hardened
lavalike adjective

Examples of lava in a Sentence

a flow of molten lava
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.
The lava flows created a fertile complex of wetlands, which supported the hunting, fishing, and eel-farming lifestyle of the Gunditjmara people for at least 40,000 years. Literary Hub, 22 Oct. 2025 In 1669, lava from one of Etna's largest eruptions overran the western suburbs of Catania. Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 22 Oct. 2025 The blade flares into existence, its scarlet glow illuminating the cave, brighter than the lava, brighter than the runes. Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 22 Oct. 2025 Active volcanoes and lava fields nearby create a stunning landscape—but also mean you could be evacuated at a moment’s notice. Maya Silver, Outside, 21 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lava

Word History

Etymology

Italian, ultimately from Latin labes fall; akin to Latin labi to slide — more at sleep

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lava was in 1759

Cite this Entry

“Lava.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lava. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

lava

noun
la·​va ˈläv-ə How to pronounce lava (audio) ˈlav- How to pronounce lava (audio)
: melted rock coming from a volcano
also : such rock that has cooled and hardened

More from Merriam-Webster on lava

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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