catalytic converter

noun

1. an antipollution device in an automotive exhaust system that contains a catalyst for chemically converting some pollutants in the exhaust gases, as carbon monoxide, unburned hydrocarbons, and oxides of nitrogen, into harmless compounds.

catalytic converter

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: catcon. a device using three-way catalysts to reduce the obnoxious and poisonous components of the products of combustion (mainly oxides of nitrogen, carbon monoxide, and unburnt hydrocarbons) from the exhausts of motor vehicles

Word History and Origins

Origin of catalytic converter¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Europium is crucial for television screens, cerium is used for polishing glass and refining oil, lanthanum makes a car's catalytic converters operate -- the list of uses in today's economy is virtually endless.

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But the lucrative family enterprise was illegal and involved buying stolen catalytic converters in a scheme that made more than $38 million for the family, according to authorities.

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Reports of catalytic converter thefts in Fresno dropped by 60% after federal authorities arrested a man who was selling thousands of the stolen car part for a profit of more than $2.5 million.

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When Johnny Wactor found people trying to steal his catalytic converter last May, one thief yelled ‘No!’ before his companion opened fire, a detective testified.

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A suspect arrested earlier this month in connection with a fatal shooting during a catalytic converter theft in Inglewood is now facing federal charges for allegedly illegally reentering the United States after being deported.

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