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/koʊl/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock formed from decayed plant matter, used as a fuel source and in the production of coke and coal gas.
The power plant runs primarily on coal as its energy source.
A solid material used as a fuel, especially for heating.
They stocked up on coal for the winter to keep the house warm.
A piece or lump of coal.
He put a lump of coal into the fireplace to start the fire.
verb
To supply with coal; to provide fuel for a steam engine.
They need to coal the train before it can leave the station.
Etymology
Middle English col, from Old English cāl, of Germanic origin.
Common Phrases and Expressions
coal mine
A place where coal is extracted from the earth.
coal plant
A facility that generates electricity by burning coal.
coal seam
A layer of coal that can be mined.
Related Words
anthracite
A hard, high-grade form of coal used for heating.
bituminous coal
A middle-grade coal often used in electricity generation.
lignite
A low-grade brownish coal used for power generation.
Slang Meanings
To be in debt or owe someone something.
I'm really coal right now; I owe my buddy a hundred bucks.
Something considered to be of low value or quality.
That movie was pure coal, I wouldn't recommend it.