catalytic converter

noun

: an automobile exhaust-system component containing a catalyst that causes conversion of harmful gases (such as carbon monoxide and uncombusted hydrocarbons) into mostly harmless products (such as water and carbon dioxide)

Examples of catalytic converter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Stricter European emissions and noise regulations forced Porsche to add two catalytic converters and two gas particulate filters to the exhaust. — Bradley Iger, ArsTechnica, 26 Aug. 2026

And Flock cameras have assisted in solving some catalytic converter thefts, as well as a criminal vehicular operation case. — Tom Olsen, Twin Cities, 14 Aug. 2026

Using precious metals and chemical reactions, catalytic converters transform harmful carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides into significantly less harmful carbon dioxide, nitrogen and water vapor. — Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Fire officials also noted that a vehicle's catalytic converter caused the fire. — Cecilio Padilla, CBS News, 30 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1955, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for catalytic converter

• diverter
• divertor
• inverter
• reverter

Kids Definition

catalytic converter

noun

: a device containing a catalyst for changing automobile exhaust into mostly harmless products