pumice

noun

pum·​ice ˈpə-məs 

: a volcanic glass full of cavities and very low in density that is used especially in powder form for smoothing and polishing

pumiceous

pyü-ˈmi-shəs 

ˌpə-

adjective

Examples of pumice in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The pumice stone method not only damages the washing machines during the process, but there is a higher labor cost involved in removing the residue, dust and sludge the stones produce. —Catherine Salfino, Sourcing Journal, 8 May 2025

Here's how to use a pumice stone for tackling hard water stains: Start by soaking the rock in water to soften it up. —Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2025

Their death provides some of the strongest evidence yet found that quakes presented another deadly obstacle—in addition to hot ash, pumice, and pyroclastic flows—for Pompeiians. Andrew Curry’s story later in the year shed light on the relationships between these unfortunate souls. —Christie Wilcox, science.org, 27 Dec. 2024

While the set comes with a small Kanuma pumice incense holder, the brand’s bronze asymmetrical beauty—designed in collaboration with Vogel Studio—gives the ritual of burning incense an elegant flair. —Lauren Arzbaecher, Architectural Digest, 28 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pomis, from Anglo-French pomice, from Latin pumic-, pumex — more at foam

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pumice

• lummis
• squamous
• strumous

Kids Definition

pumice

noun

pum·​ice ˈpəm-əs 

: a very light glass that is formed by the rapid cooling of lava from volcanoes, is full of small holes, and is used especially in powder form for smoothing and polishing

Medical Definition

pumice

noun

pum·​ice ˈpəm-əs 

: a volcanic glass full of cavities and very light in weight used especially in powder form for smoothing and polishing