Definition of pumice
: a volcanic glass full of cavities and very low in density that is used especially in powder form for smoothing and polishing
From the M-W Editors
Recent Examples of pumice from the Web
-
Prevent dead-skin pileup by using a pumice stone in the shower—and don't be tempted into using a razor.
-
As far as the eye can see is a blanket of ash and pumice—up to 700 feet in some areas.
-
But budget writers approved just $9 million for OSU to prep a pumice mine adjacent to the Bend campus for future growth.
-
Huge fountains of ash and pumice vented from the cone’s southeast flank.
-
The Romans also created a special type of volcanic pumice, called pozzalana.
-
At some places, like the cemetery, removal of the pumice was all done by hand with garden shovels.
-
Last year, Urbina had to modify the race route to avoid La Ruta’s usual grueling trip up and over the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes, a path covered with ash and riddled with sharp pumice.
-
Islands of pumice floated on the oceans for months.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'pumice.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of pumice
Middle English pomis, from Anglo-French pomice, from Latin pumic-, pumex — more at foam
PUMICE Defined for English Language Learners
pumice
playDefinition of pumice for English Language Learners
-
: a gray stone that comes from volcanoes, is full of small holes, has a very light weight, and is used especially for smoothing and polishing things or for softening the skin
PUMICE Defined for Kids
pumice
playDefinition of pumice for Students
: a very light porous volcanic glass that is used in powder form for smoothing and polishing
Medical Dictionary
pumice
playMedical Definition of pumice
: a volcanic glass full of cavities and very light in weight used especially in powder form for smoothing and polishing
Learn More about pumice
-
Spanish Central: Translation of pumice Nglish: Translation of pumice for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pumice
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up pumice? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!