Molten rock (above the earth)
Published by Naitik Mehta · March 28, 2026
Stuck on the clue Molten rock (above the earth) from the New York Times Midi for March 28, 2026? We have the correct 4-letter answer, including the definition, alternative hints, as well as other answers from the same crossword. Ready to learn more about this clue?
Clue
Molten rock (above the earth) (4)
Answer
The answer to Molten rock (above the earth) is Lava (4 letters).
Why does Lava fit this clue?
This is a direct definition clue where 'Molten rock (above the earth)' points to LAVA. Lava is molten rock that has erupted from a volcano and flows on the Earth's surface. The parenthetical qualifier '(above the earth)' distinguishes lava from magma, which is the same molten rock material while it remains underground beneath the Earth's crust. Once magma reaches the surface through volcanic eruption, it becomes lava and can flow as rivers of molten rock before cooling and solidifying.
What does Molten rock (above the earth) mean?
We break down each word in the clue and show its dictionary definitions below.
molten
adjective
•heated to a liquid state; melted
•made liquid by heat
Where did this clue appear?
This clue appeared as 5-down in the New York Times Midi on March 28, 2026, by Kareem Ayas, edited by Ian Livengood. See all answers for this puzzle.
NYT Midi — Mar 28, 2026
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What does Lava mean?
noun
•The molten rock ejected by a volcano from its crater or fissured sides.
•Magma.
Origin of the word Lava
•origin: Italian 'lava' from Latin 'labes' meaning 'a falling, sliding, or slipping down'
•period: 18th century
The word was first applied to molten rock by Italian scientists observing Mount Vesuvius, initially referring to the way the molten material 'slipped down' the mountainside.
How to use Lava in a sentence
Here are 3 examples of how to use the word Lava.
•“The volcano erupted violently, sending streams of molten lava flowing down the mountainside and destroying everything in its path.”
•“After the lava cooled and solidified, it formed a new layer of black volcanic rock along the coastline.”
•“Scientists wore protective gear as they collected samples of the glowing lava using long metal rods.”
What are other crossword clues for Lava?
Learn about related clues
All clues from the New York Times Midi, Mar 28, 2026 crossword
The New York Times Midi for March 28, 2026 titled “This Blows!” was published by Kareem Ayas and has 32 clues. Curious about all the answers from this crossword puzzle? View all answers here.
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Frequently asked questions about Molten rock (above the earth)
- What is the answer to Molten rock (above the earth)?
- The answer is Lava (4 letters).
- Where did this clue appear?
- This clue was last seen in the New York Times Midi on March 28, 2026.
- How many letters does the answer to Molten rock (above the earth) have?
- The answer has 4 letters: Lava.
Author
Naitik Mehta
Co-founder
Naitik is a gaming enthusiast who loves solving daily word games and enjoys the friendly competition from time to time. He is the co-founder of Crossword Chef and enjoys thinking about how to make crossword solving more fun for everyone around the world.
Puzzle
NYT Midi — Mar 28, 2026
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