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hot-wire

verb \ ˈhät-ˌwī(-ə)r \

Definition of hot-wire

hot-wired; hot-wiring; hot-wires
transitive verb
: to start (something, such as an automobile) by short-circuiting the ignition system

See hot-wire defined for English-language learners

First Known Use of hot-wire

1947

in the meaning defined above

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HOT-WIRE Defined for English Language Learners

hot-wire

verb

Definition of hot-wire for English Language Learners

  • : to start (a car or the engine of a car) by connecting wires in the electrical system without using a key

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