Definition of kerosene
: a flammable hydrocarbon oil usually obtained by distillation of petroleum and used as a fuel, solvent, and thinner
Indulge Your Inner Word Nerd
Recent Examples of kerosene from the Web
-
The rocket’s first stage is composed of nine Rutherford engines, which are powered by liquid oxygen and kerosene.
-
However, all of the components for the AR1 engine, which will be powered by liquid oxygen and kerosene, will be made in Canoga Park.
-
Gasoline and kerosene prices fell at slower rates, giving the index some support, according to the ministry.
-
Eventually Harriet will sell her clothing fabric to get kerosene for Phiona.
-
Rags burned, kerosene smudge, but smoke blended with clouds.
-
Use of kerosene contributes to carbon emissions, but also to more personal and immediate hazards like skin irritation, respiratory problems and a significant fire risk.
-
To keep the switches functioning, the Long Island Railroad uses the centuries-old method of burning kerosene or natural gas to keep everything running.
-
The ship hauls anchor, the kerosene lantern flickers and goes out, voices in the pitch black swell with anger as shipmates mistake each other for enemies.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'kerosene'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of kerosene
Greek kēros + English -ene (as in camphene)
First Known Use: 1854
KEROSENE Defined for English Language Learners
kerosene
playDefinition of kerosene for English Language Learners
-
: a type of oil that is burned as a fuel
KEROSENE Defined for Kids
kerosene
playDefinition of kerosene for Students
: a thin oil obtained from petroleum and used as a fuel and solvent
Medical Dictionary
Learn More about kerosene
-
See words that rhyme with kerosene Spanish Central: Translation of kerosene Nglish: Translation of kerosene for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about kerosene
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up kerosene? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!