caldera

Definition

A large crater formed by collapse of the cone or edifice of a volcano.

Etymology

Borrowed from Spanish caldera (“cauldron”), from Late Latin caldāria (“warm bath”), from Latin caldārium. Doublet of chowder.

Example Sentences

• "The lakes of both Rotorua and Taupo occupy calderas left from enormous prehistoric eruptions, and magma lies at shallow depths beneath a number of centres."

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