Definition

A geographic formation or opening in the Earth's crust through which lava, ash, and gases are ejected, often building a cone-shaped mountain. Volcanoes can be active, dormant, or extinct.

Example Usage

The volcano in Hawaii has been erupting intermittently for the past year, drawing tourists from around the world.

Origin

The English word derives from Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and metalworking, associated with Mount Etna in Sicily.

Fun Fact

Approximately 50 volcanoes erupt each year on Earth, and there are roughly 1.5 million potentially active volcanoes beneath the ocean.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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