combustion engine

noun

: an engine that derives its motive force from the energy of combustion

Examples of 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.
Trump’s reluctance to balance EVs and combustion engine vehicles risks the American automotive industry’s future. Christopher S. Tang, Baltimore Sun, 24 Feb. 2025 In a bold move that leaves no room for combustion engine truck sales just over a decade from now, CARB’s new rule would forbid truck manufacturers from selling any non-zero emission vehicle starting in 2036. Ari Plachta, Sacramento Bee, 28 Feb. 2025 Cerium is used in catalytic converters, which reduce combustion engine emissions. Jason Neely and Eric Onstad, USA TODAY, 27 Feb. 2025 Dual boost mode sees the electric motor and the combustion engine work in tandem to increase acceleration. New Atlas, 25 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for combustion engine

Word History

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of combustion engine was in 1886

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Cite this Entry

“Combustion engine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/combustion%20engine. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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