boiler

noun

boil·​er ˈbȯi-lər 

1

: one that boils

2

a

: a vessel used for boiling

b

: the part of a steam generator in which water is converted into steam and which consists usually of metal shells and tubes

c

: a tank in which water is heated or hot water is stored

d

chiefly British : furnace

Examples of boiler in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Earlier this year, a broken boiler in an 80-unit apartment building led to its condemnation by village officials. —Jerry Shnay, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026

The most recent blackout was blamed on a broken boiler at a thermoelectric plant that forced the shutdown of Cuba's power grid. —Arkansas Online, 14 Mar. 2026

The most recent blackout was blamed on a broken boiler at a thermoelectric plant that forced the shutdown of Cuba’s power grid. —ABC News, 14 Mar. 2026

Any form of coal ash, including fly ash, bottom ash, boiler slag, wet or dry, can be converted into six high-purity mineral fibers that can be used in various industries. —Nick Franck, USA Today, 12 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1540, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing boiler

• boiler room
• double boiler
• steam boiler

Rhymes for boiler

• broiler
• oiler
• spoiler
• toiler
• reboiler

Kids Definition

boiler

noun

boil·​er ˈbȯi-lər 

1

: a container in which something is boiled

2

: a strong metal container used in making steam

3

: a tank in which water is heated or hot water is stored