Refuel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⛽
refuel
[ˌriːˈfjuːəl ]
Definition
fuel supply
To refuel means to replenish the fuel supply of a vehicle, aircraft, or other machinery. This process is essential for ensuring that the equipment can continue to operate effectively. Refueling typically involves adding gasoline, diesel, or other types of fuel. It's a critical operation in transportation and aviation, as running out of fuel can lead to operational failures or accidents.
Synonyms
fill up, reload, replenish, top off.
Examples of usage
- The pilot needs to refuel the plane before taking off.
- We stopped at the gas station to refuel our car.
- The team will refuel the rocket before the launch.
- Don't forget to refuel the generator after use.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In thermodynamics, refueling can refer to adding energy to a system, which is crucial in engines and power plants.
- Biologically, all organisms need to refuel with nutrients to maintain their energy levels and support growth.
- In astronomy, similar concepts apply when discussing the refueling of satellites and spacecraft in orbit to extend their operational life.
Pop Culture
- In movies like 'Fast & Furious', thrilling car chases often include moments where characters have to refuel quickly for more action.
- Video games, especially racing games, incorporate refueling as a strategy for players to maximize their performance during races.
- Songs and music playlists often use 'refuel' metaphorically to describe preparing oneself emotionally or mentally for challenges.
Literature
- Metaphorically, writers use the term 'refuel' to denote characters taking a moment to gather resources, rethink their plans, and gain strength to continue.
- Self-help books often discuss the idea of refueling as a way for individuals to maintain their mental and emotional energy in daily life challenges.
- In poetry, the concept of refueling can symbolize renewal, rebirth, and the necessity of replenishing one's inner resources.
Technology
- In the tech world, refueling can refer to recharging batteries, such as in electric cars or smartphones, to keep them functional.
- Refueling drones for delivery services is an area of ongoing research to enhance their range and service capabilities.
- The concept also applies to computing, where 'refueling' can indicate loading data or refreshing processes to ensure optimal performance.
Origin of 'refuel'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'refuel' is made up of 're-', meaning again, and 'fuel', which comes from the Latin 'focalis', meaning 'of the fire'.
- The term started being used in the 20th century, especially with the rise of cars and airplanes needing more frequent energy supplies.
- It originally referred to adding fuel to fire but has evolved to include energy sources like food and electricity.
The term 'refuel' is derived from the combination of the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and the word 'fuel', which comes from the Latin 'focalis', meaning 'of a fireplace'. The usage of 'refuel' began in the early 20th century, particularly with advances in technology that required regular replenishment of fuel for engines and vehicles. With the rise of aviation and motorized transport, the need to refuel became a critical concept, solidifying the term in modern vocabulary. As energy demands increased, refueling processes evolved, including the establishment of dedicated refueling stations, which contributed to the global infrastructure necessary for transportation and logistics. Today, 'refuel' is commonly used across various industries, from automotive to aviation, signifying the importance of fuel management in daily operations.