jet engine

noun

: an engine that produces motion as a result of the rearward discharge of a jet of fluid

specifically : an airplane engine that uses atmospheric oxygen to burn fuel and produces a rearward discharge of heated air and exhaust gases see airplane illustration

Examples of jet engine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Just last week the Commerce Department set the stage for potential aerospace tariffs by launching a national security probe into imports of airplanes, jet engines and parts. —Matt Egan, CNN Money, 12 May 2025

The feasibility of increasing domestic capacity for domestic production of commercial aircraft, jet engines and parts. —Marisa Garcia, Forbes.com, 10 May 2025

This compact, keychain-sized alarm is ear-splitting (130 decibels—about as loud as a jet engine overhead) and designed specifically for women by women. —Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 27 Apr. 2025

Many integral parts like jet engines are comprised of components from all over the world. —Dan Murphy,natasha Turak, CNBC, 8 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

jet engine

noun

: an engine that produces motion as a result of the rearward discharge of a jet of fluid

especially : an aircraft engine that uses atmospheric oxygen to burn fuel and produces a rearward discharge of heated air and exhaust gases