pilot light

noun

1. Also called pilot, pilot burner. a small flame kept burning continuously, as in a gas stove or furnace, to relight the main gas burners whenever necessary or desired.
2. pilot lamp.

pilot light

noun

1. a small auxiliary flame that ignites the main burner of a gas appliance when the control valve opens
2. a small electric light used as an indicator

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilot light¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

We can use a ground-service cable; rig a pilot light on it, and kick it out, as soon as they get in close.

From Project Gutenberg

One of the functions of a pilot light is to prevent people from being burnt in case of an explosion in the oven.

From Project Gutenberg

“I saw a man putting in a little pilot light for the oven, to-day,” said Mrs. Morton.

From Project Gutenberg

Most stoves are constructed so that there is a pilot light for the oven.

From Project Gutenberg

Sometimes when the gas pressure is low, the pilot light will go out.

From Project Gutenberg