propane

noun

pro·​pane ˈprō-ˌpān How to pronounce propane (audio)
: a heavy flammable gaseous alkane C3H8 found in crude petroleum and natural gas and used especially as fuel and in chemical synthesis

Examples of propane in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Authorities believe an interior propane leak caused the blast at the Lamar Township home. Los Angeles Times, 20 Apr. 2026 Check your propane level and inspect the tank for any visible dents or damage if using a gas grill. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 18 Apr. 2026 James Sanders As the cold front moved in, the family quickly got to work, using propane burners, smudge pots, and pine scraps as fuel to keep the orchard warm overnight. Christa Swanson, CBS News, 18 Apr. 2026 Open fires and the use of propane or other fuel sources are generally prohibited in parks without permission. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 15 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for propane

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary prop- + -ane

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propane was in 1867

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Propane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propane. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

propane

noun
pro·​pane ˈprō-ˌpān How to pronounce propane (audio)
: a heavy flammable gas found in crude petroleum and natural gas and used especially as fuel and in the chemical industry

Medical Definition

propane

noun
pro·​pane ˈprō-ˌpān How to pronounce propane (audio)
: a heavy flammable gaseous alkane C3H8 found in crude petroleum and natural gas and used especially as fuel and in chemical synthesis

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