butane

noun

bu·​tane ˈbyü-ˌtān How to pronounce butane (audio)
: either of two isomeric flammable gaseous alkanes C4H10 obtained usually from petroleum or natural gas and used as fuels

Examples of butane 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.
During pyrolysis, the plastic polymers are broken down into smaller molecules, resulting in the production of liquid oil, fuel source gases such as methane, propane and butane, and char. Alexander Kaplitz, The Conversation, 18 Mar. 2025 Authorities acknowledge that thin-walled canisters containing butane are a concern for more potential explosions, particularly when trying to move the structural steel. Kylie Martin, Detroit Free Press, 14 Mar. 2024 The cottages had thatched roofs, open-air layouts and no electricity, just butane lamps. Laura Begley Bloom, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025 As the team says, this will get you almost 50 10-ounce (280-g) steaks cooked with one 16-ounce (450 g) propane gas supply (it can also be fueled by butane). New Atlas, 23 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for butane

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary butyric + -ane

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of butane was in 1872

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Butane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/butane. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

butane

noun
bu·​tane ˈbyü-ˌtān How to pronounce butane (audio)
: either of two flammable gases that are hydrocarbons obtained usually from petroleum or natural gas and used especially as a fuel

Medical Definition

butane

noun
bu·​tane ˈbyü-ˌtān How to pronounce butane (audio)
: either of two isomeric flammable gaseous alkanes C4H10 obtained usually from petroleum or natural gas and used as fuels

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