Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Combustion
Com-bus′tion
(?; 106)
, Noun.
[L.
combustio
: cf. F. combustion
.] 1.
The state of burning.
2.
(Chem.)
The combination of a combustible with a supporter of combustion, producing heat, and sometimes both light and heat.
Combustion
results in common cases from the mutual chemical action and reaction of the combustible and the oxygen of the atmosphere, whereby a new compound is formed. Ure.
Supporter of combustion
(Chem.)
, a gas, as oxygen, the combination of which with a combustible, as coal, constitutes combustion.
3.
Violent agitation; confusion; tumult.
[Obs.]
There [were] great
combustions
and divisions among the heads of the university. Mede.
But say from whence this new
combustion
springs. Dryden.