ignition

Everyday

1. Ignition is the moment something catches fire or starts burning. tree →
2. The ignition in a car is the switch, often turned with a key or a button, that starts the engine. tree →
3. (science) Ignition is the start of burning in an engine or rocket when fuel is lit. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons on fire, ignition needs the three parts of the fire triangle: fuel, heat and oxygen. In everyday life Dad «turns the key in the ignition». In rocket launches the countdown ends with «ignition» and «lift-off». Phrases: «turn the key in the ignition», «point of ignition», «ignition key», «ignition!».

Examples

• Mum turned the key in the ignition and the car started. tree →
• «Three, two, one, ignition, lift-off!» tree →
• Never leave the keys in the ignition. tree →
• A spark caused the ignition of the gas. tree →
• Ignition needs heat, fuel and oxygen. tree →
• The firefighters found the point of ignition in the kitchen. tree →
• The rocket's engines roared at ignition. tree →

Note

Noun from the verb «ignite» (to set on fire). Spelled with «-tion». Usually uncountable for the act; countable for the car switch («the ignition»). Safety: sources of ignition (matches, sparks, flames) must be kept away from petrol and gas.