fossil fuel

noun

: a fuel (such as coal, oil, or natural gas) formed in the earth from plant or animal remains

fossil-fueled

ˈfä-səl-ˌfyü(-ə)ld 

adjective

Examples of fossil fuel in a Sentence

oil and other fossil fuels

Recent Examples on the Web

But a new technology unveiled in China aims to give the fossil fuel a very different role. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 2 Aug. 2026

As a species that spews toxins into the air by burning fossil fuels, perhaps we humans should feel a certain kinship with these creatures. — Ben Crair, New Yorker, 31 July 2026

As the crisis has continued, electrification and non-fossil fuel power has received more and more attention. — Justin Worland, Time, 31 July 2026

Idling of vehicles with engines that burn fossil fuels also emits climate-warming greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, though climate concerns are not the primary target of anti-idling laws. — Richard Marcantonio, The Conversation, 31 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fossil fuel

• accrual
• nonfuel
• refuel
• renewal
• biofuel
• contextual
• nonrenewal
• nonsexual
• unusual
• cruel
• dual
• duel

Kids Definition

fossil fuel

noun

: a fuel (as coal, oil, or natural gas) that is formed in the earth from plant or animal remains