spark plug

noun

1
: a part that fits into the cylinder head of an internal combustion engine and carries two electrodes separated by an air gap across which the current from the ignition system discharges to form the spark for combustion
2
: one that initiates or gives impetus to an undertaking
sparkplug transitive verb

Examples of spark plug in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Building off the trust shown by his coaches, Rosas has become Sandburg’s spark plug. Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2026 Check and replace spark plugs for your generators. Rafael Olmeda, Sun Sentinel, 26 May 2026 The winter had pulled Grant into the orbit of UCLA women’s basketball, where the softball superstar became a role player, a spark plug, another body hurling itself at eventual WNBA draft picks in pursuit of a national title. Ira Gorawara, New York Times, 15 May 2026 Millie Bobby Brown reprises her role as Sherlock Holmes' spark plug of a little sister for a third time. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for spark plug

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of spark plug was in 1903

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spark plug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spark%20plug. Accessed 29 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

spark plug

noun
1
: a device used in an engine to produce a spark that ignites a fuel mixture
2
: one that begins something or drives something forward

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