ClimateJuly 6, 2026
bitumen
/bɪˈtjuːmən/
Definition
A highly viscous, semi-solid form of petroleum that is often extracted from oil sands and requires significant processing to be used as fuel.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin word 'bitumen' meaning 'mineral pitch.' It entered English through Middle French and has historically been used to describe various naturally occurring tar-like substances.
In the news
In this article, the word refers to the heavy, crude substance transported through the proposed oil pipeline from Alberta to the British Columbia coast. It highlights the government's continued investment in fossil fuel infrastructure despite climate concerns.
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Read the full article ↗Canada's National Observer