carburetor

Definition

A device in an internal combustion engine where fuel is vaporized and mixed with air prior to ignition.

Etymology

Attested from 1862, from carburet (“enrich an illuminating gas with carbon-rich fuel”) + -or. The motor vehicle sense is attested since 1896

Example Sentences

• "Near-synonym: gasifier"
• "Second, the employment of a current of air between the carburettor and the tube leading to the burner, is described. The Mechanics' Magazine, July 25, 1862."
• "Variations on the bong included air-driven pipes, electric pipes, ice pipes (chillers), mask pipes, chamber pipes, and carburetor pipes."