Plinian

/ ˈplɪnɪən /

adjective

1. geology (of a volcanic eruption) characterized by repeated explosions

Word History and Origins

Origin of Plinian¹

C20: named after Pliny the Younger, who described such eruptions

Example Sentences

It would be impossible in any case for me to attempt a Plinian panegyric, or a French éloge.

From Project Gutenberg

Read two papers before the Plinian Society of Edinburgh "at the close of 1826 or early in 1827."

From Project Gutenberg

Fast-moving deadly pyroclastic flows (“nuées ardentes”) are also commonly associated with plinian eruptions.

From Project Gutenberg

The most powerful eruptions are called “plinian” and involve the explosive ejection of relatively viscous lava.

From Project Gutenberg