gasoline

UK: ˈɡæsəliːn | US: ˈɡæsəliːn

Definition

  1. n. A volatile, flammable liquid derived from petroleum, used primarily as fuel in internal combustion engines.

Structure
gas <gas, from Greek "khaos">ol <oil, from Latin "oleum">ine <chemical suffix>
Etymology

The word "gasoline" combines "gas" (from Greek "khaos," meaning "vapor" or "empty space") with "ol" (from Latin "oleum," meaning "oil"), reflecting its origin as a refined petroleum product. The suffix "-ine" was commonly used in 19th-century chemistry to name hydrocarbons. The term emerged in the 1860s as a trademark for a refined petroleum distillate, later becoming generic. The logic ties its gaseous vapor properties ("gas") to its oily, fuel-like nature ("ol").

Examples

  1. The car’s tank was filled with high-octane gasoline.

  2. Gasoline prices have risen sharply this year.

  3. Avoid spilling gasoline near open flames.

  4. This engine runs on unleaded gasoline.

  5. The smell of gasoline lingered in the garage.