internal combustion engine

noun

: a heat engine in which the combustion that generates the heat takes place inside the engine proper instead of in a furnace

Examples of internal combustion engine 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.
Meet your new virtual assistant: The AI in your car Q: Talk about the challenges of designing a car that can be sold with an internal combustion engine and an electric battery. Morgan Korn, ABC News, 22 Dec. 2024 Honda’s hybrid powertrain has had two motors for several generations, both of which sit adjacent to the internal combustion engine. Andrew J. Hawkins, The Verge, 17 Dec. 2024 Four-door versions and internal combustion engine versions will follow next year, all on the same new STLA Large platform. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024 With the motor backing up the internal combustion engine, the e-motor enables the system to turn off all eight cylinders and hitch a ride on the electric side. Kristin Shaw, Popular Science, 11 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for internal combustion engine 

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of internal combustion engine was in 1884

Dictionary Entries Near internal combustion engine

Cite this Entry

“Internal combustion engine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/internal%20combustion%20engine. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

internal combustion engine

noun
: an engine in which the fuel is ignited within the engine cylinder instead of in an external furnace
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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