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Geothermal

UK //ˌdʒiːəʊˈθɜːməl// US //ˌdʒiːoʊˈθɜrməl// Pronunciation

Definition

Relating to heat generated within the Earth.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Related to heat from the earth.

Examples

• Geothermal energy is a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
• The geothermal springs in Iceland attract many tourists each year.
• Scientists study geothermal activity to understand volcanic processes.
• Geothermal heating systems can reduce energy costs significantly.
• The country's geothermal resources are vast and largely untapped.

Usage notes

Used in scientific and environmental contexts to discuss energy sources. Less common in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'geo' for earth and 'thermal' for heat; together they mean earth heat!

Collocations

• geothermal energy
• geothermal power
• geothermal heating
• geothermal systems
• geothermal resources

Synonyms

• earth-heated
• subterranean
• geothermic

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'geothermal energy' which is a specific application.
• Incorrectly used to describe any type of earth energy.
• Pronunciation errors due to unfamiliarity with the term.