subterrene n.
a subterranean tunnelling machine; esp. one which melts the rock in front of it and causes the molten rock to form a glassy lining to the tunnel as it develops
Now chiefly used outside of SF; however, real machines of this sort have not progressed beyond prototypes.
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1956 City & Stars i. 6
Arthur C. Clarke
With a deafening screech of metal upon rockโฆthe subterrene smashed through the wall and came to rest beside them.
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2009 Warlord of Pit xi. 131
There were several different types of Subterrenes, but the largest and most efficient operated by melting its way through rock and soil,โฆleaving a neat, solid-glass-lined tunnel behind it.
Research requirements
antedating 1956
Last modified 2020-12-16 04:08:47
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