coal seam

American  

noun

1. a bed of coal.

---

Etymology

Origin of coal seam

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Because coal seam fires have a massive supply of fuel and an unlimited supply of oxygen, they can burn for centuries, like the Brennender Berg fire.

From Salon • Mar. 4, 2023

In fact, not a single coal seam has been found in rocks of this vintage anywhere in the world.

From Scientific American • Jul. 6, 2022

An accomplished surfer and marine rescue volunteer who helped rescue people during the flood, she played a key role in the area’s decision to ban coal seam gas extraction.

From Washington Post • May 17, 2022

“The problem with coal seam fires is we don’t know how deep they are or how wide they are until you get in there and start digging,” she said.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 30, 2022

In 1962, a fire in a dump on the edge of town ignited a coal seam.

From "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson