Word
plume
US/ˈpɫum/
UK/plˈuːm/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a tall, thin shape of smoke, dust, or water that rises into the air. It can also mean a large, soft feather used for decoration.
n. a tall, spreading column of fluid, smoke, or particles moving through another medium; also refers to a large, ornamental feather. Often used in scientific contexts to describe volcanic ash or underwater thermal vents.
Examples
“A thick plume of smoke rose from the chimney.”
“Geologists monitored the massive plume of ash as it drifted across the continent after the eruption.”
“The satellite imagery captured a distinct thermal plume rising from the ocean floor, indicating significant volcanic activity beneath the waves.”
Examples
simple
“A thick plume of smoke rose from the chimney.”
contextual
“Geologists monitored the massive plume of ash as it drifted across the continent after the eruption.”
complex
“The satellite imagery captured a distinct thermal plume rising from the ocean floor, indicating significant volcanic activity beneath the waves.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “plume” in context.
Usage
Commonly followed by the preposition 'of' to specify the material, such as 'a plume of smoke' or 'a plume of steam'.
Real-World Examples
“A Wildberries employee walks past a plume of smoke rising from a fire.” “A fruit fly hunting a piece of rotting fruit or a mate navigates by smell, following plumes of odor.” “The rising plume of smoke and hot gases also contains water vapor released from burning vegetation and the surrounding atmosphere.” Idioms
Domains
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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