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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.
Tucked away in south-central Washington, about 145 miles southeast of Seattle, the Yakima Valley stretches across fertile farmland framed by rolling hills, basalt ridges, and the winding Yakima River. Vivian Chung, Travel + Leisure, 23 Nov. 2025 Its poplar wood core and basalt laminate deliver a stable ride and lively rebound while its Cork Damplifier absorbs all chatter. Outside, 13 Nov. 2025 The samples included mafic Archaean rocks derived from the Hadean–Eoarchaean mantle (including samples from Isua, Nuvvuagittuq, and the Kaapvaal Craton) and certain modern ocean island basalts (from La Réunion Island and Kama’ehuakanaloa volcano, Hawaii). Pranjal Malewar, New Atlas, 3 Nov. 2025 The brow of the mountain represents Budj Bim’s forehead, the sharp basalt scoria rocks are the giant’s teeth, and the lava flows are his blood, which poured over the land. Literary Hub, 22 Oct. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Basalt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/basalt. Accessed 30 Nov. 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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