octane

[ ok-teyn ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. any of 18 isomeric saturated hydrocarbons having the formula C 8 H 1 8 , some of which are obtained in the distillation and cracking of petroleum.
2. octane number.

octane

/ ˈɒkteɪn /

noun

1. a liquid alkane hydrocarbon found in petroleum and existing in 18 isomeric forms, esp the isomer n -octane. Formula: C 8 H 18 See also isooctane

octane

/ ŏk′tān′ /

1. Any of several hydrocarbons having eight carbon atoms connected by single bonds. It is commonly added to gasoline to prevent knocking from uneven burning of fuel in internal-combustion engines. Octane is the eighth member of the alkane series. Chemical formula: C 8 H 18 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of octane¹

First recorded in 1870–75; oct- + -ane

Example Sentences

Both teams have conceded just 26 goals so far in their 33 games, so while hopes are high of a high octane, high quality game it seems unlikely it'll be high scoring...

From BBC

One of the year’s biggest blockbusters is the series “Jujutsu Kaisen,” and as the show entered its second season, the high octane action depicted in the series came at the animators expense.

From Salon

Lower revenues on the company's EFS Midstream System, as well as lower volumes on its propylene and octane enhancement business, also affected earnings, it said.

From Reuters

“A lot of octane in that fastball and he commands it,” Lovullo said.

From Washington Times

By the mid 1990s, it was a phenomenon — what one writer for The New York Times called “a high octane snack for yuppies and fitness freaks.”

From Seattle Times