igneous

adjective

ig·​ne·​ous ˈig-nē-əs How to pronounce igneous (audio)
Synonyms of igneousnext
1
a
: formed by solidification of magma
igneous rock
b
: relating to, resulting from, or suggestive of the intrusion or extrusion of magma or volcanic activity
2
: of, relating to, or resembling fire : fiery

Examples of igneous in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Granite, perhaps; granite is the most common stone in this area, igneous rock, which means, what? — Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 27 July 2026 In Pompeii and Herculaneum, around all of Naples, a lot of the buildings are made from these black hard igneous rocks, cooled lava. — ArsTechnica, 21 July 2026 Olivine is a mineral primarily found in igneous rocks (rocks created through the solidification and crystallization of molten rock) that are rich in magnesium and iron. — Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 26 May 2026 After remotely examining the rock’s chemistry, researchers learned Arethusa is largely igneous minerals dating even further back than the Jezero Crater itself. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for igneous

Word History

Etymology

Latin igneus, from ignis fire; akin to Sanskrit agni fire

First Known Use

1664, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of igneous was in 1664

Rhymes for igneous

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Browse Nearby Words

Ignatius of Loyola
igneous
igneous fusion
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Cite this Entry

“Igneous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/igneous. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

igneous

adjective
ig·​ne·​ous ˈig-nē-əs How to pronounce igneous (audio)
: formed by hardening of melted earth
igneous rock
compare metamorphic, sedimentary sense 2

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