The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

combust

IPA:

Dictionary definition of combust

To ignite or burn something, typically as a result of a chemical reaction between a fuel and oxygen, accompanied by the release of heat and often light.
"The matchstick will combust when struck against the rough surface."

Detailed meaning of combust

When a substance or material combusts, it undergoes a transformation in which it turns into gases, ash, and heat due to the rapid oxidation of its chemical components. Combustion is a fundamental process in many aspects of everyday life, from the combustion of gasoline in engines to power vehicles, to the combustion of natural gas in home heating systems. While "combust" primarily pertains to the physical act of burning, it can also be used metaphorically to describe intense emotions or conflicts that seem to "ignite" or escalate rapidly. In both literal and figurative senses, "combust" conveys the idea of transformation and the release of energy through fire or intense activity.

Example sentences containing combust

1. Please ensure that all flammable materials are kept away from sources that can combust them.
2. The chemistry experiment went wrong when the mixture started to combust unexpectedly.
3. We witnessed a small fire in the warehouse when some stored chemicals began to combust.
4. The old fireplace has a tendency to combust if not cleaned and maintained regularly.
5. The factory workers are trained to handle situations where volatile gases may combust.
6. In extreme heat, certain chemicals can spontaneously combust without any external ignition source.

History and etymology of combust

The verb 'combust' has its origins in Latin, deriving from the word 'combustus,' the past participle of 'comburere.' In Latin, 'com' means 'together,' and 'burere' means 'to burn.' Therefore, 'comburere' signifies 'to burn together.' The etymology of 'combust' reflects the process of ignition or burning, which typically occurs when a fuel combines with oxygen in the presence of heat, resulting in the release of energy in the form of heat and often light. This word highlights the fundamental concept of combustion as a chemical reaction that transforms matter into energy and heat through the process of burning.

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Further usage examples of combust

1. The fireworks display was mesmerizing as the colorful rockets started to combust in the night sky.
2. It is essential to follow proper storage guidelines for flammable liquids to prevent them from accidentally combust.
3. The sudden rise in temperature caused the propane tank to combust, resulting in a dangerous situation.
4. The pyrotechnician skillfully ignited the fireworks, causing them to combust in perfect synchrony.
5. When exposed to high pressure, certain materials can rapidly combust, releasing a tremendous amount of energy.
6. The arsonist intentionally set fire to the abandoned building, causing it to combust within minutes.
7. The fire department arrived promptly to extinguish the flames before they could fully combust the structure.
8. The safety demonstration emphasized the importance of using fire-resistant materials that are less likely to combust.
9. The forest fire started to spread rapidly as the dry vegetation began to combust due to the scorching temperatures.
10. The research team studied the conditions under which different types of metals combust and produce varying amounts of heat.
11. The lab technician accidentally spilled a volatile chemical, causing it to combust upon contact with air.
12. The dry leaves can easily combust when exposed to an open flame.
13. The engine was overheating, and there was a risk that it might combust.
14. The scientists studied the conditions under which certain substances are more likely to combust.
15. The forest fire grew rapidly as the dry vegetation started to combust.
16. The heat generated by the chemical reaction caused the mixture to combust.
17. The matchstick was struck against the box, causing it to combust and light up.
18. The intense heat caused the fuel in the car's tank to combust spontaneously.
19. The arsonist deliberately set fire to the abandoned building, causing it to rapidly combust.
20. The gas leak created a dangerous environment, where a single spark could cause the entire area to combust.