carbon — a chemical element that forms the basis of all organic compounds and is found in coal, oil, and living things
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a chemical element that forms the basis of all organic compounds and is found in coal, oil, and living things
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈkɑːrbən/
Example Sentences
- My carbon footprint is so big, even Bigfoot is jealous of my environmental impact!
- Scientists use carbon dating to determine the age of ancient fossils.
- The company promised to become carbon neutral by 2030, or they'll plant a tree for every excuse they make.
carbon
NOUN[/ˈkɑːrbən/]
a chemical element that forms the basis of all organic compounds and is found in coal, oil, and living things

Scientists warned that rising carbon emissions were accelerating climate change worldwide.

Researchers developed new technology to reduce carbon pollution from transportation. (CAR + BURN = CARBON → burning fuel in cars releases carbon into the air)

Rising carbon pollution became a global burden with an increasingly uncertain future.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Latin carbo, meaning 'charcoal' or 'coal'. Ancient peoples observed wood burning into black charcoal and named this substance carbo. In the 18th century, as chemistry developed, this element was formally named carbon.
Breakdown
carbo- (charcoal, coal) + -on (chemical element suffix)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My carbon footprint is so big, even Bigfoot is jealous of my environmental impact!”
“Scientists use carbon dating to determine the age of ancient fossils.”
“The company promised to become carbon neutral by 2030, or they'll plant a tree for every excuse they make.”
“Carbon is essential for all known forms of life on Earth.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.