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

Even if the spark plug itself is in good shape, there could be a problem with your ignition coil. —David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 1 Feb. 2026

The lights were on, the keys were in the ignition and the front passenger side door was locked. —Brian Brant, PEOPLE, 31 Jan. 2026

Ground operators will exercise the full scenario of an actual mission countdown, running the clock to just 30 seconds prior to engine ignition, powering on the rocket and fully fueling its two stages with cryogenic fuels. —Josh Dinner, Space.com, 30 Jan. 2026

Just more than a minute after ignition, the ruptured booster caused the shuttle’s giant external fuel tank to explode, tearing the vehicle to pieces over the ocean and dooming all seven astronauts. —Meghan Bartels, Scientific American, 28 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for ignition

• addition
• admission
• ambition
• attrition
• audition
• clinician
• cognition
• coition
• commission
• condition
• contrition
• dentition

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