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Magma Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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magma

[ˈmæɡ.mə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

geological term

Magma is a molten rock material that is found beneath the Earth's surface. It originates from the melting of the Earth's mantle and crust, and can solidify to form igneous rocks. When magma erupts through the surface, it is referred to as lava.

Synonyms

igneous rock material, lava, molten rock.

Examples of usage

  • The volcano erupted, releasing magma into the atmosphere.
  • Scientists study magma to understand volcanic activities.
  • Magma cools slowly underground to form granite.
  • Lava is what we call magma once it reaches the Earth's surface.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Geology

  • Magma is formed deep within the Earth where temperatures are extremely high and pressure is greater than on the surface.
  • When magma rises to the Earth's surface, it is called lava, and it can flow out of volcanoes or solidify into rocks.
  • There are different types of magma depending on the minerals they contain, which affect how explosive a volcanic eruption will be.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, magma often signifies danger and overwhelming power, frequently depicted as bubbling lava in disaster films.
  • Video games often feature magma as a hazardous element that players must navigate, utilizing its visual appeal and thematic significance.

Science

  • Magma can hold dissolved gases which can create explosive eruptions when they escape, leading to volcanic activity.
  • The study of magma helps scientists understand more about tectonic processes and the creation of different landforms.

Literature

  • In poetry, magma is sometimes used metaphorically to represent deep emotions or inner turmoil bubbling beneath the surface.
  • Some literary works illustrate the Earth's core using magma as a symbol for creation, destruction, and the cycle of life.

Origin of 'magma'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'magma' comes from the ancient Greek word 'magma', which means 'thick unguent or ointment'.
  • Originally used to describe the thick, fluid nature of certain substances, the term became associated with molten rock in the 19th century.

The word 'magma' originates from the Latin word 'magma', which means 'thick unguent' or 'paste'. This term itself is derived from the Ancient Greek word 'magma', reflecting its meaning related to solidified or melted material. In the context of geology, 'magma' was adopted to describe the molten rock that forms beneath the Earth's crust. The term has been used since the early 19th century in scientific literature to distinguish between the molten material underground and the solid rocks that form upon its cooling. Its application has expanded with the advancement of geological sciences, emphasizing the processes of melting and crystallization that occur in the Earth's interior, leading to the understanding of volcanism and the formation of various igneous rock types.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,196, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.