ENGLISH
REFERENCE

volcanoes

n. countable
A2 Elementary US //vɑɫˈkeɪnoʊz// UK //vɒlkˈeɪnəʊz// vol·ca·noes

n. mountains with an opening at the top where hot liquid rock, steam, and ash can come out.

n. plural of 'volcano'; vents in the earth's crust through which molten rock, debris, and gases are ejected.


SIMPLE

The islands were formed by underwater volcanoes.

CONTEXTUAL

Scientists monitor active volcanoes for signs of seismic activity that might predict a major eruption.

COMPLEX

The chain of volcanoes along the tectonic plate boundary creates a dramatic landscape of basaltic flows and fertile soil that supports unique local ecosystems.

Synonyms
Usage

The plural is spelled either 'volcanoes' or 'volcanos', though the former is more common in standard English.

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