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Kerosene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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kerosene

[ˈkɛr.ə.siːn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

fuel product

Kerosene is a clear to yellowish liquid fuel derived from petroleum, primarily used for heating, cooking, and as a fuel for jet engines. It is known for its high energy content and relatively low cost, making it a popular choice in various applications. Kerosene burns cleanly and efficiently, making it suitable for household use and aviation. Due to its properties, it's often refined for specific purposes, such as aviation kerosene or lamp oil.

Synonyms

jet fuel, lamp oil, paraffin.

Examples of usage

  • The airplane was fueled with kerosene before takeoff.
  • She used kerosene to illuminate the lamps during the power outage.
  • Many stoves in rural areas still use kerosene for cooking.
  • He filled the lantern with kerosene for the night hike.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Kerosene was first distilled from coal by Scottish chemist William Murdoch in the early 19th century.
  • The name 'kerosene' comes from the Greek word 'keros,' meaning 'wax.'
  • It was widely popularized by Abraham Gesner in the 1850s, who developed a method to extract it from crude oil.

Arts and Literature

  • Kerosene lamps symbolized affordability and accessibility during the industrial revolution, shaping everyday lives and stories.
  • Many poets of the late 19th and early 20th centuries referenced kerosene lamps to evoke themes of light in darkness, representing hope and survival.

Science and Chemistry

  • Kerosene is classified as a hydrocarbon, primarily composed of carbon and hydrogen molecules.
  • It has a high flash point, making it safer to store than many other fuels, which is part of why it's widely used.
  • Kerosene can also be used as a solvent and for cleaning purposes, highlighting its versatility beyond fuel.

Environmental Impact

  • While kerosene is a useful fuel, burning it can produce greenhouse gases, contributing to air pollution.
  • Alternative energies and improved technologies continue to challenge the use of kerosene due to environmental considerations.

Pop Culture

  • Kerosene is often depicted in films as the fuel for survival in desolate settings, highlighting its role in creating light and warmth in harsh conditions.
  • It features in various music lyrics, symbolizing resilience and the struggle against dark times.

Origin of 'kerosene'

The word 'kerosene' originates from the Greek word 'keros' meaning 'wax', combined with the suffix '-ene' used in chemistry to denote the substance's nature. It was first introduced in the mid-19th century when it was distillated from crude oil and employed as a cheaper and safer alternative to whale oil for lighting. Kerosene became widely used for lamps and heating in homes and industries. Its production and use surged with the advancement of the petroleum industry and the development of internal combustion engines. The name has since become a common term for this versatile fuel that finds applications in various sectors, including aviation and energy production.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,726, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.