pahoehoe

Definition

A form of lava flow of basaltic rock, usually dark-colored with a smooth or ropey surface. It is one of two chief forms of lava flow emitted from volcanoes of the Hawaiian type, the other form being aa.

Etymology

From Hawaiian pāhoehoe.

Example Sentences

• "We [...] saw ‘pahoihoi’ or solid lava forming, and also ‘aa’ or clinkers."
• "The twisty, ropy kind that personifies flow – all congealed motion – is called pahoehoe."

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