ignition

noun

ig·​ni·​tion ig-ˈni-shən 

1

a

: the device that is used to ignite the fuel mixture in a gasoline engine

put the key in the ignition

b

: the process or means (such as an electric spark) of igniting a fuel mixture

2

: the act or action of igniting: such as

a

: the starting of a fire

b

: the heating of a plasma to a temperature high enough to sustain nuclear fusion

Examples of ignition in a Sentence

There's a problem with the car's ignition.

Recent Examples on the Web

Depending on the presence of sunlight, the reflective qualities of the bottle and liquid can heat up nearby objects to the point of fire ignition if hot enough, Richardson said. —Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 20 July 2024

Ice buildup was seen during the live stream of the launch with no sign of the normal ignition of the stage’s second burn. —Richard Tribou, Orlando Sentinel, 18 July 2024

Tens of millions will go to other agencies such as Cal Fire for wildfire ignition detection technology and the California Conservation Corps. —Ari Plachta, Sacramento Bee, 10 July 2024

The two-stage Alpha rocket lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California late Wednesday, two days after an issue with ground equipment aborted liftoff just before engine ignition. —Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 5 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

ignition

noun

ig·​ni·​tion ig-ˈnish-ən 

1

: the act of igniting

2

: the process or means (as an electric spark) of igniting a fuel mixture

also : an electrical device for operating an ignition system (as in an automobile)

put the key in the ignition