Pronunciation

/kəʊl/

Definitions

• Noun: 1. A dark, carbon-rich mineral formed from the remains of plants, used as fuel and as a source of heat and electricity. 2. (informal) The act of smoking tobacco, typically in a pipe or cigarette.
• Verb: To supply or use coal as fuel; to mine or harvest coal.
• Adjective: Characterized by or containing coal; black.

Phrases

• “Coal-fired power plant” refers to a power plant that uses coal as fuel.
• “Coal seam” is a layer of coal found in the earth.
• “Coalition government” is a ruling administration made up of different political parties.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The town’s economy heavily relies on coal mining.”
• Verb: “The miners were busy unloading coal from the train.”
• Adjective: “The old brick chimney was sooty from the coal fire inside.”

Synonyms

• Lignite, anthracite, peat
• Heat source, energy provider
• Fossil fuel, mineral deposit

Notes

• “Coal” can also be a slang term for a particular type of person, often used in a humorous or affectionate manner. Example: “He’s such a coal, always cracking jokes.”