pyrophoric

[ pahy-ruh-fawr-ik, -for- ]

adjective

, Chemistry.

1. capable of igniting spontaneously in air.

pyrophoric

/ ˌpaɪrəʊˈfɒrɪk /

adjective

1. (of a chemical) igniting spontaneously on contact with air
2. (of an alloy) producing sparks when struck or scraped

   lighter flints are made of pyrophoric alloy

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyrophoric¹

1780–90; < Greek pyrophór ( os ) fire-bearing ( pyro-, -phorous ) + -ic

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyrophoric¹

C19: from New Latin pyrophorus, from Greek purophoros fire-bearing, from pur fire + pherein to bear

Example Sentences

The residuum of the distillation is pyrophoric and frequently inflames spontaneously, on exposure to the air.

From Project Gutenberg

These two combustibles are in such a state of division, that the residuum is pyrophoric.

From Project Gutenberg

Ferrous oxide is obtained when ferric oxide is reduced in hydrogen at 300 as a black pyrophoric powder.

From Project Gutenberg