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

These seemingly small actions can lead to dry grass ignition, potentially sparking a wildfire. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 25 Mar. 2025

Scramjet Unlike the standard ramjet, the supersonic combustion ramjet—or scramjet—is configured to compress higher-velocity air (typically Mach 5-plus), then pair it with hydrogen fuel for ignition in the combustion chamber. —Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 22 Mar. 2025

The Context Federal investigators found Hawaiian Electric's equipment was responsible for the ignition of the August 2023 Lahaina blaze, which killed 102 people and destroyed approximately 2,200 buildings in the historic Maui town. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025

Before the Eaton and Palisades fires devastated Los Angeles County, there was momentum among lawmakers to reduce bills by steering utilities away from burying electric lines — a surefire but expensive way to avoid ignitions during dry, windy conditions. —Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for ignition

• addition
• admission
• ambition
• attrition
• audition
• clinician
• cognition
• coition
• commission
• condition
• contrition
• dentition

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