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 SUVs’ fuel injector may crack, which can allow liquid fuel or vapor to accumulate near ignition sources, possibly starting fires. —William Gavin, Quartz, 12 Apr. 2024

Ford says in documents filed through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that the vehicles' fuel injectors can crack, causing gasoline or vapor to accumulate near ignition sources, which can spur fires. —The Enquirer, 11 Apr. 2024

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention promotes the idea that ignition interlock devices reduce drunk driving recidivism by 67%. —Chris Ramirez, Journal Sentinel, 15 Feb. 2024

Think of General Motors picking Mary Barra to be the first woman to run a major global automaker just before a major crisis — the ignition switch problem that killed more than 100 drivers and passengers and cost the company billions — became public. —Chris Isidore, CNN, 27 Mar. 2024

Owners are advised to turn off the ignition and use the emergency parking brake after parking their vehicles. —USA TODAY, 25 Mar. 2024

The car was packed for that trip and Mark had the key in the ignition when Cindy ran out the front door. —Maggie Menderski, The Courier-Journal, 21 Mar. 2024

The first ignition point was in Anlauf Canyon and the second was at the top of Koenigstein Road in Ventura County. —Brittny Mejia, Los Angeles Times, 26 Feb. 2024

Another point to consider is the ignition method: some models will require a lighter or matches (which are generally not waterproof) while some camp stoves can be ignited with a push button built in, known as a striker. —Lauren Breedlove, Travel + Leisure, 21 Mar. 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