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

Authorities said the passenger was able to take the keys out of the ignition and stabbed the suspect in the face with what appeared to be a metal fork until the suspect got out of the vehicle. —Christina Hall, Freep.com, 9 Oct. 2025

Hit the ignition button and the blade doesn't just flick on; the light extends like a real lightsaber would. —Chris McMullen, Space.com, 8 Oct. 2025

The ignition source of the fire remains under investigation, and the restaurant will remain closed while damage is assessed. —Adrienne Davis, jsonline.com, 8 Oct. 2025

Police said the key to the vehicle was left in the ignition at the time of the theft. —Paulina Dedaj, FOXNews.com, 7 Oct. 2025

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