Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/koʊl/

Definitions

• Noun: A black or brownish-black sedimentary rock that is primarily composed of carbon and is used as a fuel source.
• Noun: The material burned for heat or energy, often in the form of lumps, pellets, or powder.

Usage Examples

• The factory ran on coal for many years before switching to cleaner energy sources.
• Coal mining has been an important industry in many countries for centuries.
• In the winter, people often use coal stoves to keep their homes warm.

Etymology

The word "coal" comes from the Old English word "cōl," meaning "charcoal" or "coal," which is derived from Proto-Germanic *kōl and related to the Old High German "chūla" meaning "coal" and the Dutch "kool." It has been used to refer to the fuel source since at least the 12th century.

Synonyms

• Charcoal
• Fuel
• Coal dust
• Lignite (for lower quality coal)
• Anthracite (a high-quality type of coal)

Antonyms

• Renewable energy
• Solar energy
• Wind energy
• Hydropower
• Electricity

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "coal" is generally consistent across English-speaking regions. However, some regional dialects might vary in the emphasis placed on syllables. For example, in some southern U.S. dialects, it may be pronounced with a stronger "o" sound as /kʌʊl/ instead of /koʊl/.

Historical Usage

Coal has been used as a fuel source for centuries, especially during the Industrial Revolution, which saw an increase in the use of coal to power steam engines and factories. It was historically important in the development of industries and railroads, contributing to the global economic expansion of the 19th century.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, coal has played a symbolic role in the development of modern civilization. It is often associated with hard work and industrial progress. However, as concerns about climate change have increased, coal has also become a symbol of environmental degradation and the push for cleaner energy alternatives.

More Information

Coal remains one of the most important energy sources globally, particularly in electricity generation and steel production. However, its environmental impact—especially in terms of air pollution and carbon emissions—has led to a decline in its usage in favor of renewable energy sources. Modern efforts to reduce the environmental impact of coal include carbon capture and storage technologies, though coal's future remains uncertain as the world transitions toward more sustainable energy solutions.