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
In most African markets, Chinese EVs cost the same as their internal combustion engine alternatives, according to research firm BMI.
—
Jenny Vaughan,
semafor.com,
1 July 2026
The patented system includes a rotary power source (typically an internal combustion engine), a generator-motor, a differential connected to the drive wheels, and multiple shafts and clutches that control how power flows through the vehicle.
—
Rupendra Brahambhatt,
Interesting Engineering,
28 June 2026
The purists were always going to take issue with a Prancing Horse that had an electric powertrain instead of snarling internal combustion engine, but its unorthodox design, courtesy of Jony Ivy’s LoveFrom studio, has received just as much criticism.
—
Bryan Hood,
Robb Report,
26 June 2026
Following the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix, news broke that Red Bull was deemed to have the best internal combustion engine part, which is just one component of a Formula 1 engine.
—
Madeline Coleman,
New York Times,
26 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for internal combustion engine
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Jenny Vaughan,
semafor.com,
1 July 2026
The patented system includes a rotary power source (typically an internal combustion engine), a generator-motor, a differential connected to the drive wheels, and multiple shafts and clutches that control how power flows through the vehicle.
—
Rupendra Brahambhatt,
Interesting Engineering,
28 June 2026
The purists were always going to take issue with a Prancing Horse that had an electric powertrain instead of snarling internal combustion engine, but its unorthodox design, courtesy of Jony Ivy’s LoveFrom studio, has received just as much criticism.
—
Bryan Hood,
Robb Report,
26 June 2026
Following the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix, news broke that Red Bull was deemed to have the best internal combustion engine part, which is just one component of a Formula 1 engine.
—
Madeline Coleman,
New York Times,
26 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for 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 2 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
