gasoline

[gas-uh-leen, gas-uh-leen]

noun

1. a volatile, flammable liquid mixture of hydrocarbons, obtained from petroleum, and used as fuel for internal-combustion engines, as a solvent, etc.

gasoline

/ ˌɡæsəˈlɪnɪk, ˈɡæsəˌliːn /

noun

1. Also called (esp in Britain): petrol. any one of various volatile flammable liquid mixtures of hydrocarbons, mainly hexane, heptane, and octane, obtained from petroleum and used as a solvent and a fuel for internal-combustion engines. Usually petrol also contains additives such as antiknock compounds and corrosion inhibitors

gasoline

1. A highly flammable mixture of liquid hydrocarbons that are derived from petroleum. The hydrocarbons in gasoline contain between five and eight carbon atoms. Gasoline is used as a fuel for internal-combustion engines in automobiles, motorcycles, and small trucks.

Other Word Forms

• gasolinic adjective
• gasolineless adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of gasoline¹

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65; gas + -ol ² + -ine ²

Example Sentences

In a world of acrimony, filled with the gasoline of fear and hatred, his words are sparks.

From Salon

After the employee refused, their car was allegedly set on fire using gasoline, investigators said.

From Los Angeles Times

Vehicles that burn gasoline or diesel are a major contributor to human-caused climate change, experts said, and transitioning away from fossil fuels is key to a healthy climate.

From Los Angeles Times

At the same time, gasoline prices will increase because of the higher demand from more gas-powered vehicles on the road.

From Los Angeles Times

“The Aviator and the Showman” leaves no doubt about Earhart’s disappearance: She misjudged her gasoline reserves, panicked and crashed near tiny Howland atoll.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• diesel fuel 
• juice 
• oil 
• petrol