Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

lapilli

Noun

/ləˈpɪli/

Definition

Lapilli refers to small, pebble-sized fragments of volcanic rock or minerals that are ejected during a volcanic eruption.

Examples

During the explosive eruption, clouds of lapilli rained down on the surrounding landscape.
The archaeologists found layers of lapilli covering ancient structures, indicating past volcanic activity.
Lapilli is commonly found in areas with a history of volcanism, such as Italy and Iceland.

Meaning

The term ‘lapilli’ is specifically used in volcanology to describe the size classification of volcanic material. It denotes particles that range from 2 to 64 millimeters in diameter.