lode
word
Definition
A lode is a layer of valuable metal or mineral in the ground, often a rich source of gold, silver, or other resources. It can also be used figuratively to mean a rich supply or source of something valuable.
Usage & Nuances
Mainly used in geology and mining; often found in phrases like 'gold lode' or 'mother lode.' Figurative use (meaning a rich source) exists in journalism or everyday metaphor, but is less common. Not interchangeable with 'load' (which means to carry something).
Example Sentences
The miners discovered a rich lode of silver deep underground.
basic
Social media can be a lode of trends and ideas if you know where to look.
natural
They hope to find the lode where the gold comes from.
basic
A lode of copper runs through this mountain.
basic
Striking the lode changed the town's future overnight.
natural
That archive is a lode of historical information.
natural