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

Available in four elevated neutrals -- ivory, sand, taupe and pumice stone -- to add five-star decor to any couch, chair or bed. —Tory Johnson, ABC News, 27 Feb. 2026

Cactus or succulent soil mix is typically composed mostly of inorganic ingredients like sand, perlite, pumice, or gravel, but can contain some of the same ingredients as regular potting mix. —Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 26 Feb. 2026

Historically, the industry has depended on washing machines, pumice stones, and chemical treatments for washing, while manual labor and chemical applications have been essential for dry processes. —Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 24 Feb. 2026

For tougher stains, use a pumice stone. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 13 Feb. 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