external combustion engine
noun
Definition of external combustion engine
: a heat engine (such as a steam engine) that derives its heat from fuel consumed outside the cylinder
From the M-W Editors
1890
First Known Use of external combustion engine
1890
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up external combustion engine? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!