fossil fuel

noun

: a fuel (such as coal, oil, or natural gas) formed in the earth from plant or animal remains
fossil-fueled adjective

Examples of fossil fuel in a Sentence

oil and other fossil fuels
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.
As the world warms due to fossil fuel pollution, a warmer atmosphere is able to soak up more moisture like a sponge, only to wring it out in heavier bursts of rain. Brandon Miller, CNN Money, 26 June 2025 Trump brought with him a new agenda, prioritizing fossil fuels and combustion engines and dismantling EV incentives as well as regulations. Camila Domonoske, NPR, 25 June 2025 Industrial heat pumps provide another pathway by amplifying waste heat to reach the high temperatures manufacturing requires, without using as much fossil fuel. Andres Clarens, The Conversation, 23 June 2025 The effort is part of Hochul’s plans to replace more than two gigawatts of fossil fuel capacity the state has shuttered in decisions largely driven by environmental concerns. Elizabeth Crisp, The Hill, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for fossil fuel

Word History

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fossil fuel was in 1759

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fossil fuel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fossil%20fuel. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

fossil fuel

noun
: a fuel (as coal, oil, or natural gas) that is formed in the earth from plant or animal remains

More from Merriam-Webster on fossil fuel

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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