pumice

noun

pum·​ice ˈpə-məs 

: a volcanic glass full of cavities and very low in density that is used especially in powder form for smoothing and polishing

pumiceous

pyü-ˈmi-shəs 

ˌpə-

adjective

Examples of pumice in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Dissolving pumice beads provides a textural grit that immediately sloughs away some of the bigger bumps while AHAs provide invisible decongestion and cell turnover. —Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 5 June 2026

Scrub especially dirty grates with a block of pumice, then wash grates well to remove pumice dust. —Emerson Latham, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 May 2026

Historically, brands have used pumice stones to achieve a worn, stonewashed look — with stones often shipped from Mexico, adding transport emissions and cost to the process. —ABC News, 28 May 2026

Gently rub the pumice stone over the surface of the soap scum, rinsing away any residue that collects on it. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 22 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pomis, from Anglo-French pomice, from Latin pumic-, pumex — more at foam

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pumice

• lummis
• squamous
• strumous

Kids Definition

pumice

noun

pum·​ice ˈpəm-əs 

: a very light glass that is formed by the rapid cooling of lava from volcanoes, is full of small holes, and is used especially in powder form for smoothing and polishing

Medical Definition

pumice

noun

pum·​ice ˈpəm-əs 

: a volcanic glass full of cavities and very light in weight used especially in powder form for smoothing and polishing