antiknock

American  

[an-tee-nok, an-tahy-, an-tee-nok, an-tahy-] / ˌæn tiˈnɒk, ˌæn taɪ-, ˈæn tiˌnɒk, ˈæn taɪ- /

adjective

1. noting or pertaining to a substance, as tetraethyllead or ferrocene, used as a fuel additive for an internal-combustion engine to eliminate or minimize knock.

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noun

1. such a substance added to fuel in an internal-combustion engine.

antiknock British  

/ ˌæntɪˈnɒk /

noun

1. a compound, such as lead tetraethyl, added to petrol to reduce knocking in the engine

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Etymology

Origin of antiknock

First recorded in 1920–25; anti- + knock

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

antiknock

Octane rating is the index of antiknock qualities.*

From Time Magazine Archive

The other was Dr. Thomas Midgley Jr., president-elect of the Society, pioneer in the development of antiknock gasoline, and vice president of Ethyl Gasoline Corp.

From Time Magazine Archive

The new fuel can be used in any car with a low-compression engine not requiring the antiknock properties of leaded gas.

From Time Magazine Archive

Since leaded antiknock compounds accounted for 36% of those sales and a hefty 60% of the profits, Ethyl may have more knocks ahead.

From Time Magazine Archive

The refiners treat their gas with this antiknock compound, may sell the treated gas only to jobbers who are also licensed by the top company.

From Time Magazine Archive