basalt

noun

ba·​salt bə-ˈsȯlt  ˈbā-ˌsȯlt 

: a dark gray to black dense to fine-grained igneous rock that consists of basic plagioclase, augite, and usually magnetite

basaltic

bə-ˈsȯl-tik 

adjective

Examples of basalt in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This Victoria Falls masterpiece is, as its name suggests, modeled on the rich colors of one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls, which sits on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe where the Zambezi River plunges over a basalt cliff. — Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 3 Oct. 2026

Follow the Mount Hood Scenic Byway through forests punctuated by vine maple, and then continue into the Columbia River Gorge, where waterfalls, basalt cliffs, and dark evergreens provide a dramatic setting for patches of classic fall hues. — Stefanie Waldek, Travel + Leisure, 6 Sep. 2026

Its towering basalt cliffs formed as ancient volcanic rock cooled and fractured. — Sarah Kingdom, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026

The picturesque harbor, lighthouse, and breakwater invite leisurely strolls; Artist’s Point offers a rocky shoreline perfect for watching waves crash against ancient basalt. — Ginger Crichton, Midwest Living, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin basaltes, manuscript variant of basanites touchstone, from Greek basanitēs (lithos), from basanos touchstone, from Egyptian bḫnw

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for basalt

• asphalt
• assault
• cobalt
• default
• exalt
• gestalt
• alt
• fault
• gault
• halt
• malt
• sault

Kids Definition

basalt

noun

ba·​salt bə-ˈsȯlt  ˈbā-ˌsȯlt 

: a dark gray to black usually fine-grained igneous rock

basaltic

bə-ˈsȯl-tik 

adjective