refuel
UK: ˌriːˈfjuːəl | US: ˌriːˈfjuːəl
vt. to supply with fuel again
vi. to take on more fuel
The word "refuel" combines the prefix "re-" (from Latin, meaning "again") with the noun "fuel" (from Old French "feuaile," derived from Latin "focale," meaning "material for burning"). The term emerged in the early 20th century, reflecting the need to describe the process of replenishing fuel, particularly in aviation and automotive contexts. The logic is straightforward: "re-" signals repetition, while "fuel" retains its core meaning, creating a verb that clearly denotes the act of adding more fuel.
The plane had to refuel before crossing the ocean.
We stopped at the gas station to refuel the car.
The spacecraft will refuel in orbit using solar energy.
Long-haul trucks often refuel at designated depots.
The pilot checked the gauges to determine when to refuel.