ClimateJuly 16, 2026

lignite

/ˈlɪɡnaɪt/

Definition

A soft, brown, low-grade type of coal that is geologically intermediate between peat and bituminous coal, often used as fuel in thermal power plants.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'lignum' meaning 'wood', reflecting the fact that lignite often retains the visible structure of the plant matter from which it formed. It entered English in the late 18th century to describe this specific form of combustible mineral.

In the news

The article discusses the Afşin-Elbistan plant as a major complex powered by lignite. The environmental impact of mining and burning this specific type of low-grade coal is a central point of legal and policy contention in Türkiye.

Afşin-Elbistan Ruling: A Turning Point For Coal and Turkey’s Energy Transition – OpEd

Read the full article ↗

Eurasia Review

Related words

accelerant

A substance or factor that increases the speed or intensity of a process or reaction.

Climate

aniline

A toxic, oily liquid chemical primarily used as a precursor in the production of…

Climate

cellulose

A complex carbohydrate that forms the main structural component of plant cell walls and…

Climate

changemaker

An individual who actively works to solve social or environmental problems by initiating…

Climate

confluence

A gathering or convergence of distinct factors or events that collectively produce a…

Climate

corset

A restrictive structure or framework that shapes and limits the range of movement or…

Climate

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.

Not for marketing. One email on launch day.