preignition

noun

pre·​ig·​ni·​tion ˌprē-ig-ˈni-shən How to pronounce preignition (audio)
: ignition in an internal combustion engine while the inlet valve is open or before compression is completed

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The warm-up, preignition, and main combustion initiation sequence of the R-7 took 10 to 15 seconds to gather force before the rocket lifted off. Jim Oberg, Discover Magazine, 16 Apr. 2014

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'preignition.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of preignition was in 1898

Dictionary Entries Near preignition

Cite this Entry

“Preignition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preignition. Accessed 28 Mar. 2023.

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