Pumice: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in beauty and spa treatments for exfoliating skin, also frequently employed in industrial applications for polishing and cleaning.

• She used a pumice stone to remove calluses from her feet
• The carpenter used powdered pumice to smooth the wooden surface

Used in both scientific and general everyday contexts to refer broadly to rock formed from volcanic activity, without specifying its properties.

• Volcanic rock covers the island, a testament to its fiery past
• Scientists studied the volcanic rock samples to understand the eruption's history

Usually used in a more poetic or descriptive manner, often when describing the texture and appearance of the stone.

• The cave was filled with frothy stones, giving it a mystical appearance
• The artist admired the unique look of the frothy stone wall

Typically used in geological or construction contexts to describe the properties of volcanic materials that make them ideal for specific uses.

• Lightweight lava is often used in landscaping due to its ease of handling
• Builders prefer lightweight lava for creating efficient, insulated concrete

Used mainly in health and beauty products to remove dead skin cells, especially on the feet. It is a light, porous volcanic rock.

• She used a pumice stone to smooth her heels.
• Pumice is great for treating rough skin.

Refers to any hard material used to grind, smooth, or polish surfaces. Common in industrial or craft settings.

• The craftsman used an abrasive stone to sharpen his tools.
• Abrasive stones are essential for metalwork.

Used for cleaning hard surfaces and removing tough stains. Often applied in household cleaning.

• She used a scouring material to clean the burnt residue off the pan.
• Scouring materials are effective for scrubbing bathroom tiles.

Typically used in skincare, this term refers to substances used to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Can be chemical or physical.

• The face scrub has an exfoliating agent to help clear pores.
• Exfoliating agents are key in achieving smooth skin.