ignition

noun

ig·​ni·​tion ig-ˈni-shən How to pronounce ignition (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Pilot lights are used as an ignition source for larger burners inside furnaces, stoves, water heaters, clothes dryers, ovens, and gas fireplaces. Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Nov. 2024 His return to the team has switched the ignition back on and the motor is running smoothly again. Amy Lawrence, The Athletic, 23 Nov. 2024 Crews are becoming ever-more adept at fighting fires and have begun rolling out new helicopters that enable them to battle blazes overnight and new technology that can catch ignitions sooner, Foxworthy said. Hayley Smith, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2024 Use extreme caution with any potential ignition sources. Chris Boyette, CNN, 6 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for ignition 

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of ignition was in 1612

Dictionary Entries Near ignition

Cite this Entry

“Ignition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ignition. Accessed 12 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

ignition

noun
ig·​ni·​tion ig-ˈnish-ən How to pronounce ignition (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on ignition

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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