spark plug

noun

1
: a part that fits into the cylinder head of an internal combustion engine and carries two electrodes separated by an air gap across which the current from the ignition system discharges to form the spark for combustion
2
: one that initiates or gives impetus to an undertaking
sparkplug transitive verb

Examples of spark plug 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.
In a gas engine, a small device called a spark plug ignites the compressed fuel-air mixture. Michael Leamy, Discover Magazine, 2 Nov. 2024 Step 2: Turn Off Mower: After 15 minutes turn off the engine, then disconnect the spark plug to avoid accidentally starting the mower during the oil change. Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Oct. 2024 Just like your car, your lawn mower occasionally needs maintenance in the form of new spark plugs, an oil change, new tires, and a new air filter. Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Sep. 2024 When the wire is disconnected, carefully turn the spark plug counterclockwise to loosen and remove it. Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for spark plug 

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of spark plug was in 1903

Dictionary Entries Near spark plug

Cite this Entry

“Spark plug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spark%20plug. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

spark plug

noun
1
: a device used in an engine to produce a spark that ignites a fuel mixture
2
: one that begins something or drives something forward

More from Merriam-Webster on spark plug

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