kerosene
UK: ˈkɛrəsiːn | US: ˈkɛrəˌsin
n. A flammable hydrocarbon oil distilled from petroleum or shale, used as fuel in lamps, heaters, and engines.
kerosene = keros<wax> + ene<hydrocarbon suffix>
- keros (from Greek kēros meaning "wax")
- ene (a suffix used in chemistry to denote hydrocarbons, derived from Greek -ēnē)
Etymology Origin:
The word "kerosene" was coined in 1854 by Canadian geologist Abraham Gesner, who derived it from Greek kēros ("wax") due to its waxy appearance when cooled. The suffix -ene was added to align with chemical naming conventions for hydrocarbons. Initially, kerosene was distilled from coal tar (not petroleum), but its modern usage shifted to petroleum-based fuel. The term reflects both its physical properties and scientific classification.
Kerosene lamps were widely used before electricity became common.
The stove runs on kerosene, making it useful in remote areas.
Spilled kerosene can pose a fire hazard.
She filled the heater with kerosene to keep warm during winter.
Aviation fuel is chemically distinct from household kerosene.