noun

combustion

/kəmˈbʌstʃən/ · say it: kuhm·BUS·chun

a chemical reaction with oxygen that releases heat and light

In Science & Nature

In more detail

1. (noun) the chemical reaction that happens when something burns, producing heat and light

2. (noun) the process of burning fuel to create energy or power

Examples

1. The combustion of wood produces ash and smoke.
2. Car engines work by combustion of gasoline inside cylinders.

How to use combustion

Combustion is primarily used in technical or scientific contexts to describe the chemical process of burning, often in relation to engines, fuel, or chemical reactions. It is more formal and precise than the everyday word 'burning' and is commonly found in discussions of chemistry, engineering, and environmental science.

Common phrases

internal combustion
combustion engine
combustion chamber
spontaneous combustion
complete combustion

Synonyms

burning · ignition · oxidation · incineration · flame

Word family

combust (verb) · combustible (adjective) · combustibility (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse combustion with explosion; combustion is a controlled or gradual burning process, while explosion is a sudden, violent release of energy.

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