How Do You Spell KEROSENE?

Pronunciation: [kˈɛɹəsˌiːn] (IPA)

Kerosene is a flammable liquid commonly used as fuel in lamps and heaters. Its spelling can be tricky for non-native English speakers, as it deviates from traditional phonetic rules. The word is pronounced /ˈkerəsiːn/ with the first syllable sounding like "care" and the second like "a scene." The "o" in "kero" is silent, and the "ene" ending sounds like "een." This unusual spelling is thought to be derived from Greek roots, reflecting the compound's original use in lamps.

KEROSENE Meaning and Definition

1. Kerosene is a highly flammable liquid fuel that is derived from petroleum. It is composed of a mixture of hydrocarbon compounds, mainly alkanes, which are obtained through the refining process of crude oil. The term "kerosene" is used primarily in North America and Australia, while it is known as "paraffin oil" in other parts of the world.

   Kerosene has a clear or pale yellow color, and it is commonly used as a fuel in lamps, stoves, and heaters, providing a source of heat or light. Its low volatility and relatively high flash point make it a suitable fuel for such applications. Kerosene's combustion properties allow it to burn efficiently, yielding a steady and controlled flame.

   In addition to its use as a fuel, kerosene also finds applications in various industries. It is utilized as a solvent for certain substances, such as oils, waxes, and greases, due to its ability to dissolve or dilute them effectively. It is also employed as a component in the production of certain chemicals, including jet fuel and various types of lubricants.

   However, it is important to handle kerosene with caution due to its highly flammable nature. It should be stored in well-ventilated areas, away from open flames or sources of ignition. Proper safety measures should be followed while using or storing kerosene to prevent accidents or fires.

Top Common Misspellings for KEROSENE *

• kerosen 18.1818181%
• karosine 18.1818181%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for KEROSENE

• karocene
• keresone
• karosene
• erosen
• kerocine
• keroscene
• kerozene
• keroserne
• keroseen
• cerosene
• keroesine
• kerosin
• Kerolyne
• krisene
• Kerozen
• Cearosene
• Yersenee
• Yersene
• Kerrene
• Kereseme
• kersosene
• kroysene
• kersasene
• aerottne
• Kerojen
• Aerogene

Etymology of KEROSENE

The word "kerosene" originates from Greek and was coined by a Canadian physician and geologist named Abraham Gesner in 1854. The term combines the Greek words "keros" meaning wax and "elaion" meaning oil. It was predominantly derived from "keros" due to the similar properties kerosene shares with natural waxes. Initially, Gesner used this term to refer to a distillate derived from coal, but later it became more commonly associated with the flammable liquid obtained from petroleum.

Similar spelling word for KEROSENE

• kerosine.