Definition

A thick, oily liquid found underground that is used to make fuel and other products.

Example

The company is drilling for petroleum in the Gulf of Mexico.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about where petroleum comes from?

Yeah, it's interesting how it's formed over millions of years.

I read that it's used to make so many products, not just fuel.

Right! It's amazing how essential petroleum is in our daily lives.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Petroleum is formed from "petra" (meaning rock) and "oleum" (meaning oil). The word refers to oil that comes from rock, specifically from the earth.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rock' ('petra') and 'oil' ('oleum') to remember that petroleum is oil that comes from rock.

Visually Confused Words