spark gap

noun

Electricity.

1. a space between two electrodes, across which a discharge of electricity may take place.

2. the electrodes and the space between, considered as a unit: used in ignition systems.

spark gap

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: gap. the space between two electrodes across which a spark can jump

spark gap

1. A gap in an otherwise closed electric circuit across which a discharge occurs at a prescribed voltage. The discharge often causes ionization of the surrounding gas and thereby very high temperatures, and can be exploited, as in spark plugs, to ignite engine fuel in a combustion chamber.

Word History and Origins

Origin of spark gap¹

First recorded in 1885–90