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internal combustion engine
noun
: a heat engine in which the combustion that generates the heat takes place inside the engine proper instead of in a furnace
Examples of internal combustion engine in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Up top, the company focuses on comparing the lifetime emissions of its EVs to internal combustion engine vehicles.
—Justine Calma, The Verge, 24 May 2024
Vision Marine's commitment to eco-friendly electric powerboats is reshaping the recreational boating experience, offering higher speeds, longer ranges, and smoother rides than traditional internal combustion engine boats.
—Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 May 2024
Experts say a transition from a transportation sector based on the internal combustion engine to one that is electrified is all but inevitable.
—Stephanie Hanes, The Christian Science Monitor, 6 May 2024
Among a suite of new features, the electric G 580 can turn on a dime, take tight switchback corners with ease, and ford deeper water than its internal combustion engine counterparts.
—IEEE Spectrum, 13 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for internal combustion engine
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'internal combustion engine.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1884, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of internal combustion engine was
in 1884
Dictionary Entries Near internal combustion engine
Cite this Entry
“Internal combustion engine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/internal%20combustion%20engine. Accessed 17 Jun. 2024.
Kids Definition
internal combustion engine
noun
: an engine in which the fuel is ignited within the engine cylinder instead of in an external furnace
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