SINCE 1828
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autoignition

noun
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au·​to·​ignition
plural -s

Definition of autoignition

1 : self-ignition in an internal-combustion engine cylinder either as a result of the heat of the compression alone or from this in combination with glowing carbon — compare preignition
2 : spontaneous combustion

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Other Words from autoignition

autoignite intransitive verb autoignited; autoigniting; autoignites
Apparently these additives sufficiently lower the ignition temperature of the particulates that are collected on the trap for the particulates to autoignite. — W. D. Route et al., Oil & Gas Journal, 25 Jan. 1982

First Known Use of autoignition

1901, in the meaning defined at sense 2

History and Etymology for autoignition

aut- + ignition

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Time Traveler for autoignition

Time Traveler

The first known use of autoignition was in 1901

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Dictionary Entries Near autoignition

autoicous

autoignition

autoimmune

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Cite this Entry

“Autoignition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/autoignition. Accessed 29 Jun. 2022.

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