caldera

noun

cal·de·ra | \ kal-ˈder-ə

, kȯl-, -ˈdir-

Definition of caldera

: a volcanic crater that has a diameter many times that of the vent and is formed by collapse of the central part of a volcano or by explosions of extraordinary violence

Did You Know? Example Sentences Learn More about caldera

Keep scrolling for more

Examples of caldera in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When looking at volcanoes, scientists often focus on what's known as the caldera, a volcanic crater similar to a cauldron. — David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, "Kilauea's 2018 Eruption Was "Unprecedented," Scientists Say," 11 Dec. 2018 Skip out on the Serengeti Plains and instead explore the world’s largest unbroken caldera, the Ngorongoro Crater, home to endangered black rhinos and dozens of other species of majestic African animals. — Lauren Hubbard, Town & Country, "Why an Around-the-World Private Jet Trip is the Only Way to Fly," 17 Aug. 2018 The latter formed the current caldera at Campi Flegrei, which is more than eight miles across. — Mary Beth Griggs, The Verge, "An Italian volcano’s massive eruptions fit a pattern — and the cycle may have restarted," 14 Nov. 2018 The National Park visitor center and hotel - Volcano House - are on the rim of the caldera. — Angela Fritz, chicagotribune.com, "8 facts about Hawaii's Kilauea volcano," 7 May 2018 An eager Hubbard even flew over the crater while the volcano was still active, nearly being sucked into the superheated caldera by a downdraft. — Ben Anderson, Anchorage Daily News, "Alaska's biggest volcanic eruptions," 27 Feb. 2012 Since 1912, only seven caldera-collapsing events have occurred worldwide. — Mary Beth Griggs, The Verge, "An Italian volcano’s massive eruptions fit a pattern — and the cycle may have restarted," 14 Nov. 2018 The summit caldera is also collapsing, causing even larger temblors almost daily. — Jennifer Sinco Kelleher, Fox News, "Road damage from earthquakes is latest Hawaii volcano peril," 3 Aug. 2018 Cruise towards the unique volcanic site of Santorini, and sail into the centre of the island's caldera for the amazing view of the cliffs up from the sea. — Jack Dancy, Town & Country, "How to Plan a Trip to Europe," 5 Oct. 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'caldera.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.