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spontaneous combustion

noun

Definition of spontaneous combustion

  1. :  self-ignition of combustible material through chemical action (such as oxidation) of its constituents —called also spontaneous ignition

See spontaneous combustion defined for English-language learners

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1795

First Known Use of spontaneous combustion

1795

SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION Defined for English Language Learners

spontaneous combustion

noun

Definition of spontaneous combustion for English Language Learners

  • : burning that is caused by chemical actions inside of something rather than by heat from the outside

SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION Defined for Kids

spontaneous combustion

noun

Definition of spontaneous combustion for Students

  1. :  a bursting of material into flame from the heat produced within itself through chemical action

Learn More about spontaneous combustion

  1. Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about spontaneous combustion

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