combustion engine

noun

: an engine that derives its motive force from the energy of combustion

Examples of combustion engine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The modern combustion engine provides another case-in-point. Michael C. Horowitz, Foreign Affairs, 26 Sep. 2025 The range extender system consists of a highly efficient high-voltage generator driven by a small combustion engine. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 20 Sep. 2025 The story of the European combustion engine monopoly is increasingly becoming a thing of the past. Neil Winton, Forbes.com, 6 Sep. 2025 This third-generation hydrogen fuel cell system is 25% smaller than its predecessor and has been designed to fit in the space normally occupied by a combustion engine. New Atlas, 6 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for combustion engine

Word History

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of combustion engine was in 1886

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Cite this Entry

“Combustion engine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/combustion%20engine. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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