ignition

noun

ig·​ni·​tion ig-ˈni-shən 

1

a

: the device that is used to ignite the fuel mixture in a gasoline engine

put the key in the ignition

b

: the process or means (such as an electric spark) of igniting a fuel mixture

2

: the act or action of igniting: such as

a

: the starting of a fire

b

: the heating of a plasma to a temperature high enough to sustain nuclear fusion

Examples of ignition in a Sentence

There's a problem with the car's ignition.

Recent Examples on the Web

Pilot lights are used as an ignition source for larger burners inside furnaces, stoves, water heaters, clothes dryers, ovens, and gas fireplaces. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Nov. 2024

His return to the team has switched the ignition back on and the motor is running smoothly again. —Amy Lawrence, The Athletic, 23 Nov. 2024

Crews are becoming ever-more adept at fighting fires and have begun rolling out new helicopters that enable them to battle blazes overnight and new technology that can catch ignitions sooner, Foxworthy said. —Hayley Smith, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2024

Use extreme caution with any potential ignition sources. —Chris Boyette, CNN, 6 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

ignition

noun

ig·​ni·​tion ig-ˈnish-ən 

1

: the act of igniting

2

: the process or means (as an electric spark) of igniting a fuel mixture

also : an electrical device for operating an ignition system (as in an automobile)

put the key in the ignition