internal combustion engine

noun

: a heat engine in which the combustion that generates the heat takes place inside the engine proper instead of in a furnace

Examples of internal combustion engine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Rising ownership costs are causing American drivers to look at alternative powertrain options and used models instead of new internal combustion engine vehicles. Charles Singh, USA Today, 28 May 2026 But for the marque’s most diehard supporters, the only true Lotus among its current offerings is the two-door Emira with its mid-mounted internal combustion engine. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 27 May 2026 Ethiopia was the first country to ban imports of internal combustion engine vehicles, spurring faster adoption of electric vehicles. ABC News, 27 May 2026 The changes will alter the split in overall F1 engine power delivery — from the current near 50-50 arrangement between the internal combustion engine (ICE) component and the electrical systems to more like 60-40, with the ICE taking on greater importance. Alex Kalinauckas, New York Times, 14 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for internal combustion engine

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of internal combustion engine was in 1884

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Cite this Entry

“Internal combustion engine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/internal%20combustion%20engine. Accessed 2 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

internal combustion engine

noun
: an engine in which the fuel is ignited within the engine cylinder instead of in an external furnace
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