self-ignite

[ self-ig-nahyt, self- ]

verb (used without object)

, self-ig·nit·ed, self-ig·nit·ing.

1. to ignite without spark or flame.

Other Words From

• self-ig·ni·tion [self, -ig-, nish, -, uh, n, self-], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-ignite¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

A by-product of uranium enrichment, depleted uranium is used for ammunition because its extreme density gives rounds the ability to easily penetrate armor plating and self-ignite in a searing cloud of dust and metal.

From Reuters

Oil and methane deposits near Lokbatan tend to self-ignite during eruptions, so flames and smoke often accompany the skyrocketing mud.

From Scientific American

Immediately thereafter, a plunging piston squeezes the charge to generate high pressure and thus heat, causing the fuel to self-ignite.

From Scientific American

Department of Transportation have expressed concerns because the batteries pack large amounts of energy and can overheat or self-ignite if they are defective, damaged or overcharged, experts said.

From Los Angeles Times

None of it was the kind of rubbish that could self-ignite.

From The Guardian