Langimage
English

coal

|coal|

B1

🇺🇸

/koʊl/

🇬🇧

/kəʊl/

combustible rock

Etymology
Etymology Information

'coal' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'col', where it meant 'charcoal' or 'live coal'.

Historical Evolution

'col' transformed into the Middle English word 'cole', and eventually became the modern English word 'coal'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'charcoal or live coal', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a combustible rock used as fuel'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a combustible black or dark brown rock consisting mainly of carbonized plant matter, found mainly in underground deposits and widely used as fuel.

The power plant burns coal to generate electricity.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to supply with coal.

The ship was coaled before setting sail.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35