pyrophoric

adjective

py·​ro·​phor·​ic ˌpī-rə-ˈfȯr-ik How to pronounce pyrophoric (audio)
-ˈfär-
1
: igniting spontaneously
2
: emitting sparks when scratched or struck especially with steel

Examples of pyrophoric 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.
But again, if the helicopter blades aren't pyrophoric but do conduct electricity, the whole effect disappears. Kyle Hill, Discover Magazine, 1 Aug. 2013 Intel, Nov. 11, 1986 (Aloha): A pyrophoric gas silane cylinder leaks through a valve and catches fire. Mike Rogoway, OregonLive.com, 17 July 2017

Word History

Etymology

New Latin pyrophorus, from Greek pyrophoros fire-bearing, from pyr- + -phoros carrying — more at -phore

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pyrophoric was in 1788

Dictionary Entries Near pyrophoric

Cite this Entry

“Pyrophoric.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pyrophoric. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

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