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.
Palisades residents have sued LADWP, alleging that one of the utility’s electrical towers started a second ignition when it was knocked down at 10:30 p.m. on Jan. 7, about 12 hours after the Palisades fire began. Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2025 Winds from the west to southwest of 15 mph to 25 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph, combined with extremely low humidity from 5 percent to 10 percent, creating conditions conducive to wildfire ignition. Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 July 2025 Fire risk is defined as the potential damage a fire can do to an area in its existing condition, which can lead to municipalities requiring fuel reduction projects, defensible space and ignition resistant building construction. Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 8 July 2025 These seemingly small actions can lead to dry grass ignition, potentially sparking a wildfire. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 29 June 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 18 Jul. 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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