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

The current instrument now uses standard spark plugs and ignition coils like those in car engines. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 6 Aug. 2026

Starting the car requires a traditional, mechanical physical key ignition. — New Atlas, 5 Aug. 2026

According to organization officials, the truck has body and ignition damage that prevents it from being driven. — Harry Harris, Mercury News, 5 Aug. 2026

Sarah stretches the beaver pelt in front of her mother to shield her from the crackling ignition of the newspaperman’s flash powder. — Claire Carusillo, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 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