pilot light

American  

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.

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pilot light British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of pilot light

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

It was like someone lit the pilot light.

From Los Angeles Times

One of the property’s residents told Pittsburgh ABC affiliate WTAE-TV that the victim was trying to turn on the pilot light on a furnace in the guest house when the building burst.

From Washington Times

Yulman’s modules sat on small tables, rhythmically sparking like little pilot lights and pulsing against small drums in conversation with their human counterparts.

From Washington Post

That might be a sign that the pilot light on the heater has gone out.

From Los Angeles Times

“The pilot light got ignited by ‘In Bruges.’”

From Seattle Times