fuel oil

noun

: an oil that is used for fuel and that usually has a higher flash point than kerosene

Examples of fuel oil 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.
The uncertainty over the future of the program has also rattled local distributors of fuel oil in Connecticut, many of whom have already had to grapple with cuts to the assistance their customers rely on for deliveries. Laura Tillman, Hartford Courant, 3 Apr. 2025 Ship emissions and lightning With engines that are often three stories tall and burn viscous fuel oil, ships traveling into and out of ports emit copious quantities of soot and sulfur particles. Chris Wright, The Conversation, 11 Mar. 2025 Most ships still run on fossil fuels – and particularly on heavy fuel oil, which produces high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. David Prosser, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025 And thanks to the refinery, Nigeria has become a net exporter of jet fuel, naphtha (a solvent used in varnishes, laundry soaps, cleaning fluids) and fuel oil, according to S&P Global. John Hyatt, Forbes, 17 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fuel oil

Word History

First Known Use

1893, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fuel oil was in 1893

Cite this Entry

“Fuel oil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fuel%20oil. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

fuel oil

noun
: an oil that is used for fuel and that usually ignites at a higher temperature than kerosene

More from Merriam-Webster on fuel oil

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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