Definition

The area in a mine where coal is being extracted or the visible surface of coal.

Example

The miners worked hard at the coalface to extract the valuable resource.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new mining site they opened up near the river?

Yeah, I heard they found a big coalface there.

That sounds promising! I wonder how much coal they can extract from it.

If it's as rich as they say, it could really boost the local economy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Coalface is formed from "coal" (from Old English "cal", meaning a black combustible mineral) and "face" (from Old French "face", meaning the front or surface of something). The term "coalface" refers to the exposed surface of a coal seam in a mine, where coal is being extracted.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'front' or 'surface' ('face') of the 'black mineral' ('coal') that miners work on — that's what coalface means.

Visually Confused Words