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

Duncan was able to get the key out of the ignition and tossed it over the top of the vehicle, according to the affidavit. —Tracy Neal, arkansasonline.com, 18 Sep. 2024

On Monday morning, the U.S. Forest Service announced on social media that crews reached 32% containment, the highest containment percentage since ignition Tuesday afternoon. —Lauren De Young, The Arizona Republic, 16 Sep. 2024

Vehicles equipped with the enhanced software will only start if the owner's key, or an identical duplicate, is in the ignition. —CBS News, 7 Aug. 2024

The fire can also occur even when the ignition is turned off. —Ahjané Forbes, USA TODAY, 29 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 2

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