ignition

noun

ig·​ni·​tion ig-ˈni-shən How to pronounce ignition (audio)
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
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.
Nessel also said the Oxford Center did not use a grounding strap for Thomas, which is essential to protect patients and equipment from static electricity that can serve as an ignition source in the chamber. Elizabeth Chuck, NBC News, 11 Mar. 2025 It's activated by the same button that's used to operate the flashlight, and should reportedly be good for about 100 eight-second ignitions per battery-charge. Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 15 Feb. 2025 According to state police, the vehicle was turned off and the keys were removed from the ignition before Tobin attempted to shift the vehicle into drive and pressed the gas during an escape attempt. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 10 Feb. 2025 The laser energy fuses the hydrogen together to create a burst of energy in a process called ignition. Laura Paddison, CNN, 5 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ignition

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of ignition was in 1612

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ignition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ignition. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

ignition

noun
ig·​ni·​tion ig-ˈnish-ən How to pronounce ignition (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on ignition

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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