Kerosene - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Kerosene is a flammable liquid fuel commonly used in lamps, heaters, and jet engines. It is derived from petroleum and is known for its clear or pale yellow color.
Definition:
A flammable hydrocarbon liquid used as fuel, especially in lamps and heaters.
Synonyms:
paraffin, lamp oil, coal oil
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
water, non-flammable liquid
Common Collocations:
kerosene lamp, kerosene heater, kerosene stove
Derivatives:
kerosenes (plural), kerosenic (adjective)
Usage Tips:
Use "kerosene" to refer to the fuel; avoid confusion with gasoline or diesel.
Common Phrases:
burn the midnight oil, fueled by kerosene, light the lamp
Etymology:
Derived from Greek "keros" (wax) and chemical suffix "-ene," coined in the 19th century.
Examples:
- 1. The campers used kerosene to light their lanterns at night.
- 2. Kerosene heaters are common in rural areas without electricity.
- 3. She accidentally spilled kerosene on the garage floor.
- 4. The old stove runs on kerosene instead of gas.