Meaning & Definition of word "Coal"
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Coal
/koʊl/
noun:
- 1. 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.
- Example: The power plant runs primarily on coal as its energy source.
- 2. A solid material used as a fuel, especially for heating.
- Example: They stocked up on coal for the winter to keep the house warm.
- 3. A piece or lump of coal.
- Example: He put a lump of coal into the fireplace to start the fire.
verb:
- 1. To supply with coal; to provide fuel for a steam engine.
- Example: 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 of coal
Meaning: To be in debt or owe someone something.
Example Sentence: I'm really coal right now; I owe my buddy a hundred bucks.
Meaning: Something considered to be of low value or quality.
Example Sentence: That movie was pure coal, I wouldn't recommend it.