Meaning & Definition of word "Coal"

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.