Definition

Noun: A large, bowl-shaped volcanic depression, typically formed by the collapse of land following a powerful volcanic eruption that empties a magma chamber.

Usage

The term is used specifically in geology and volcanology to describe a major volcanic landform. It refers to the resulting cavity, not the explosive event itself.

Examples

• The caldera of Yellowstone National Park is one of the largest in the world.
• Scientists study the formation of a caldera to understand past super-eruptions.
• A lake often fills the caldera long after the volcanic activity has ceased.

Advanced Usage

• Nested caldera: A caldera formed within a larger, older caldera.
• Resurgent dome: A uplifted area in the center of a caldera caused by renewed magma pressure.

Variants and Related Words

• Calderic (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of a caldera. (e.g., ).

Different Meanings

This word has a single, specific geological meaning.

Synonyms

• Volcanic crater
• Collapse crater
• Crater (in a specific volcanic context)

Idioms

• None. This is a technical term not used idiomatically.

Phrasal Verbs

• None. This is a noun and does not form phrasal verbs.

Noun

1. a large crater caused by the violent explosion of a volcano that collapses into a depression