ignition coil

noun

1. (in an automotive ignition system) a transformer consisting of two wire windings or coils in which low-voltage direct current is fed through the primary winding to generate high-voltage spark pulses in the secondary winding.

ignition coil

noun

1. an induction coil that supplies the high voltage to the sparking plugs of an internal-combustion engine

Word History and Origins

Origin of ignition coil¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

The ignition coil in an engine transforms the battery’s 12-volt charge into thousands of volts, which are needed to create an electric spark to ignite the fuel.

From Seattle Times

Royal Enfield said on Wednesday it will recall close to 236,966 motorcycles across some models due to defects in the ignition coil that can cause misfiring and, in rare cases, an electric short circuit.

From Reuters

The company says in government documents that a computer can power the ignition coil after the car is shut off.

From Seattle Times

Subaru says the engine computer can keep powering the ignition coil after motors are shut off.

From Seattle Times

He built a loudspeaker by stretching a pig’s bladder across a wooden frame and made a radio-controlled boat by using an ignition coil from a Ford Model T as a transmitter.

From New York Times