Definition

Noun: A volatile, flammable liquid mixture of hydrocarbons (primarily hexane, heptane, and octane) derived from petroleum, used chiefly as a fuel in internal-combustion engines.

Usage

This word refers specifically to the refined petroleum product used as motor fuel. It is a non-count noun (mass noun).

Examples

• The price of gasolene has increased significantly this month.
• Most cars require unleaded gasolene.
• The storage of gasolene requires special safety precautions due to its flammability.

Advanced Usage

• "Gasolene" is a standard term, though "gasoline" is the more common spelling in American English. The shortened, informal form "gas" is widely used in everyday speech (e.g., "I need to stop for gas").

Variants and Related Words

• Gasoline (n): The most common American English spelling, synonymous with "gasolene."
• Petrol (n): The common term for this fuel in British English.
• Fuel (n): A general term for any material used to produce energy or heat.
• Octane (n): A hydrocarbon and a key component of gasoline; also refers to a rating of fuel's anti-knock quality (e.g., high-octane gas).

Synonyms

• Fuel
• Petrol (British English)

Notes on Meaning

• Gasolene/Gasoline refers specifically to the liquid fuel for engines. It should not be confused with "gas," which can also refer to the state of matter (e.g., oxygen gas) or natural gas used for heating. The intended meaning is usually clear from context.

Noun

1. a volatile flammable mixture of hydrocarbons (hexane and heptane and octane etc.) derived from petroleum; used mainly as a fuel in internal-combustion engines