Coal

Definition

Coal is a noun. It refers to a combustible black or dark brown sedimentary rock formed from ancient plant matter, used primarily as a fuel source and in energy production. It is composed mostly of carbon, along with varying amounts of other elements like hydrogen, sulfur, oxygen, and nitrogen.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /koʊl/
• Respelling: kohl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəʊl/
• Respelling: kohl

The pronunciation of "coal" is nearly identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "coal" originates from the Old English "col," meaning "charcoal" or "live coal." It shares Germanic roots with Dutch "kool" and German "Kohle," all referring to charcoal or mineral coal.

Derivatives

• Coalition (noun)
• Coal-like (adjective)
• Coal-fired (adjective)
• Coal miner (noun)
• Coaly (adjective)

Synonyms

• Charcoal
• Anthracite
• Lignite

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "coal" is commonly used in contexts related to fuel, energy, and mining, as in "The power plant is coal-fired." It also appears in figurative language, like "walking on hot coals," indicating an uncomfortable or challenging situation.

Related Terms

• Fossil fuel: Natural fuels formed from the remains of living organisms.
• Carbon: The chemical element that is a primary component of coal.
• Mining: The process of extracting minerals, including coal, from the earth.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A combustible sedimentary rock used as fuel: Refers to a black or brownish rock primarily used for energy production.
  • Example: "The factory is powered by coal."
• A piece of burning or glowing carbon or wood: Often used to refer to charcoal or burning coals.
  • Example: "She placed a hot coal in the fire pit."