lava

noun

la·​va ˈlä-və  ˈla- 

: 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

ˈlä-və-ˌlīk 

ˈla-

adjective

Examples of lava in a Sentence

a flow of molten lava

Recent Examples on the Web

Its texture suggests that the magma cooled relatively slowly beneath the surface rather than erupting as lava. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2026

However, eruptions and lava flows have been conspicuous by their absence. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 4 Nov. 2026

Molcajetes constructed of lava rock with pits creating a rough and not smooth nor easily cleanable surface were in the facility. — Arkansas Online, 26 Oct. 2026

The otherworldly petrified dunes, lava flows, and cliffs of Snow Canyon State Park are a mere 10 miles from town. — Tamara Gane, Travel + Leisure, 22 Oct. 2026

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

Phrases Containing lava

• lava cake
• lava lamp

Rhymes for lava

• cava
• fava
• flava
• guava
• jahveh
• balaclava
• cassava

Kids Definition

lava

noun

la·​va ˈläv-ə  ˈlav- 

: melted rock coming from a volcano

also : such rock that has cooled and hardened