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

Mopeds, which are also in the vehicle code, would include two- or three-wheel vehicles that can travel up to 30 mph with an electric motor of less than 3 kilowatts or an internal combustion engine that produces less than 4 horsepower. — Madison Smalstig july 18, Sacbee.com, 18 July 2026

Most will use a mix of internal combustion engine and brakes to recharge their hybrid powertrains’ traction batteries, like the millions of Priuses out there on the roads. — Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 16 July 2026

But that segment is price-sensitive and ICE (internal combustion engine) competition is both stiff. — Brooke Crothers, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026

In most African markets, Chinese EVs cost the same as their internal combustion engine alternatives, according to research firm BMI. — Jenny Vaughan, semafor.com, 1 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

internal combustion engine

noun

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