lapillus

noun

la·​pil·​lus lə-ˈpi-ləs How to pronounce lapillus (audio)
plural lapilli lə-ˈpi-ˌlī How to pronounce lapillus (audio)
-(ˌ)lē
: a small stony or glassy fragment of lava ejected in a volcanic eruption

Examples of lapillus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This eruption would technically be a vulcanian eruption according to MVO and prevailing winds prevented ash or lapilli from falling on the eastern half of Montserrat. Erik Klemetti, WIRED, 8 Feb. 2010

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'lapillus.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin, diminutive of lapis

First Known Use

1747, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lapillus was in 1747

Dictionary Entries Near lapillus

Cite this Entry

“Lapillus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lapillus. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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