English Explanatory Dictionary

Plinian eruption

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A type of volcanic eruption marked by the ejection of large columns of volcanic debris and gases into the stratosphere; particularly large amounts of pumice, caused by a very powerful, gas-driven eruption.

Word forms

Plinian eruption Plinian eruptions

Etymology

Named for the description given by Pliny the Younger of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., which has been taken as archetypical of this type of eruption.

Synonyms

Vesuvian eruption

Derived words

subplinian eruption ultraplinian eruption
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