Pumice

Definition

A light, porous volcanic rock formed when lava with high water and gas content cools rapidly, creating air pockets throughout. It's so buoyant it can float on water for years and is commonly used as an abrasive in beauty products and industrial applications.

Example Usage

She used a pumice stone to smooth the calluses on her heels after her morning shower.

Origin

From Latin 'pumex,' likely related to the sound of air bubbles or foam.

Fun Fact

Pumice from the 1883 Krakatoa eruption floated across the Indian Ocean and washed ashore in East Africa nearly a year later.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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