pluton

[ ploo-ton ]

noun

, Geology.

1. any body of igneous rock that solidified far below the earth's surface.

pluton

/ ˈpluːtɒn /

noun

1. any mass of igneous rock that has solidified below the surface of the earth

pluton

/ plo̅o̅′tŏn′ /

1. A large body of igneous rock formed when a plume of magma cools and solidifies underground. Although most plutons are deep within the Earth's crust, some become exposed at the surface due to plate-tectonic processes.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pluton¹

1935–40; < German Pluton, back formation from plutonisch plutonic

Word History and Origins

Origin of pluton¹

C20: back formation from plutonic

Example Sentences

While these fled, disaster fell upon the two torpedo-boat destroyers, Pluton and Furor.

From Project Gutenberg

Gradually the Pluton's guns became silent, and it was evident that she was in distress.

From Project Gutenberg

We were now within five hundred yards of the Furor, firing; sometimes at her and sometimes at the Pluton.

From Project Gutenberg

The casting of lots is mentioned by Alfred in his version of Bede, pluton mid tanum, "they cast lots with twigs."

From Project Gutenberg

The "Pluton" kept her engines going just long enough to drive her ashore under the Socapa cliffs.

From Project Gutenberg