Ignition
ɪɡˈnɪʃən
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act or process of setting something on fire; combustion.
ɪɡˈnɪʃən
The act of setting something on fire or the state of being on fire.
The rapid ignition of the gasoline caused a large explosion.
💡 Simply: Imagine lighting a bonfire. Ignition is the moment when the fire actually starts to burn! It's when something goes from being unlit to being on fire.
👶 For kids: When something starts to burn, that's ignition!
More Examples
The scientist studied the ignition process of the chemical reaction.
How It's Used
"The ignition of the dry leaves created a dangerous fire hazard."
"The ignition temperature of the fuel was carefully measured."
The mechanism or process by which fuel is ignited in an internal combustion engine, such as the spark provided by a spark plug.
ɪɡˈnɪʃən
The mechanism or process that starts an engine.
He turned the ignition key and the engine sputtered to life.
💡 Simply: When you turn the key in a car to start the engine, that's the 'ignition'. It's the moment the car gets power and can drive.
👶 For kids: The thing that starts the car's engine - like when you turn the key!
More Examples
The mechanic diagnosed the problem as a faulty ignition coil.
Make sure the ignition is off before disconnecting the battery.
How It's Used
"The car failed to start because of a faulty ignition system."
"The pilot turned the ignition key to start the aircraft's engine."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
ignition switch
The switch that starts the ignition system in a vehicle.
"The car wouldn't start because the ignition switch was broken."
point of ignition
The specific moment or place when something begins.
"The point of ignition for the political unrest was the economic crisis."
From Latin *ignitiō* (“a setting on fire”), from *ignis* (“fire”). The word entered English in the late 17th century, initially referring to the act of setting something on fire. The mechanical sense developed later, primarily in relation to engines.
Historically, 'ignition' was used in more general terms referring to the act of setting something on fire, as evidenced in older scientific and literary texts. The specific mechanical sense related to engines is a later development.
Memory tip
Think of a lit match – it starts the ignition process.
Word Origin
"fire"