Meaning & Definition of word "Combustion"
to
Combustion
/kəmˈbʌs.tʃən/
noun:
- 1. The process of burning something.
- Example: The combustion of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
- 2. A chemical reaction that occurs between a fuel and an oxidant, typically producing heat and light.
- Example: Internal combustion engines operate through the combustion of gasoline and air.
- 3. The rapid chemical combination of a substance with oxygen, producing heat and light.
- Example: Combustion reactions are fundamental to the operation of rockets and fireworks.
- 4. The state of being on fire.
- Example: The building was lost to combustion after the fire spread rapidly.
Etymology
Late Middle English: from Latin combustio(n-), from the verb comburere, from com- 'altogether' + burere 'to burn'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
internal combustion engine:
A type of engine in which fuel is burned inside the engine itself.
combustion chamber:
The area within an engine where fuel and air mix and ignite.
controlled combustion:
A combustion process that is regulated to avoid unwanted emissions.
Related Words
ignite:
To start a fire or cause to burn.
flame:
The visible, gaseous part of a fire.
oxidation:
A chemical reaction involving oxygen that often produces heat or light.
Slang Meanings of combustion
Meaning: To explode or burn out quickly.
Example Sentence: The old engine just combusted on the highway.
Meaning: To become very angry or lose one's temper.
Example Sentence: When he heard the news, he combusted.