firedamp

noun

fire·​damp ˈfī(-ə)r-ˌdamp How to pronounce firedamp (audio)
: a combustible mine gas that consists chiefly of methane
also : the explosive mixture of this gas with air

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of firedamp was in 1662

Dictionary Entries Near firedamp

Cite this Entry

“Firedamp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firedamp. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

firedamp

noun
fire·​damp -ˌdamp How to pronounce firedamp (audio)
: a flammable mine gas that consists chiefly of methane
also : the explosive mixture of this gas with air

Medical Definition

firedamp

noun
fire·​damp -ˌdamp How to pronounce firedamp (audio)
: a combustible mine gas that consists chiefly of methane
also : the explosive mixture of this gas with air compare black damp

More from Merriam-Webster on firedamp

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!