self-ignite

American  

[self-ig-nahyt, self-] / ˈsɛlf ɪgˈnaɪt, ˌsɛlf- /

verb (used without object)

self-ignited, self-igniting

1. to ignite without spark or flame.

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Other Word Forms

• self-ignition noun

Etymology

Origin of self-ignite

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

A by-product of uranium enrichment, depleted uranium is used for ammunition because its extreme density gives rounds the ability to easily penetrate armor plating and self-ignite in a searing cloud of dust and metal.

From Reuters

Oil and methane deposits near Lokbatan tend to self-ignite during eruptions, so flames and smoke often accompany the skyrocketing mud.

From Scientific American

Immediately thereafter, a plunging piston squeezes the charge to generate high pressure and thus heat, causing the fuel to self-ignite.

From Scientific American

Department of Transportation have expressed concerns because the batteries pack large amounts of energy and can overheat or self-ignite if they are defective, damaged or overcharged, experts said.

From Los Angeles Times

None of it was the kind of rubbish that could self-ignite.

From The Guardian