Word
magneto
Phoneticsmag·ne·to
UK/mæɡnˈiːtəʊ/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a small generator that uses magnets to create electricity for a spark. It is usually found in older engines or small machines like lawnmowers to help them start.
n. an electrical generator that employs permanent magnets to produce periodic pulses of alternating current. Primarily used in ignition systems for internal combustion engines to provide high-voltage sparks.
Examples
“The old tractor wouldn't start because the magneto was broken.”
“Small engines, such as those on chainsaws and lawnmowers, often rely on a magneto rather than a battery for ignition.”
“Early aircraft engines utilized a dual magneto system to ensure that the spark plugs would continue to fire even if one electrical circuit failed during flight.”
Examples
simple
“The old tractor wouldn't start because the magneto was broken.”
contextual
“Small engines, such as those on chainsaws and lawnmowers, often rely on a magneto rather than a battery for ignition.”
complex
“Early aircraft engines utilized a dual magneto system to ensure that the spark plugs would continue to fire even if one electrical circuit failed during flight.”
Usage
Commonly used in mechanical and historical engineering contexts.
Etymology
Clipping of magneto-electric (machine).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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