lava

noun

la·​va ˈlä-və How to pronounce lava (audio) ˈla- How to pronounce lava (audio)
: 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 adjective

Examples of lava in a Sentence

a flow of molten lava
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Indeed, Hawaii Island has the unique distinction of continuing to expand, with active volcanoes creating the lava flow necessary to increase its total land mass. John Wogan, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025 The eruption led to the emergency evacuation of hundreds of residents and the volcanology agency raising the alert to the highest level, warning of possible lava flows. Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 July 2025 Balanced with delicacy and harmony and subtle delights; lava cake on the finish. Tom Mullen, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025 But just how realistic is the future of lava cities? Francesca Perry, CNN Money, 3 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for lava

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of lava was in 1759

Cite this Entry

“Lava.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lava. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

lava

noun
la·​va ˈläv-ə How to pronounce lava (audio) ˈlav- How to pronounce lava (audio)
: melted rock coming from a volcano
also : such rock that has cooled and hardened

More from Merriam-Webster on lava

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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