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pyrophoric

adjective
py·​ro·​phor·​ic | \ ˌpī-rə-ˈfȯr-ik How to pronounce pyrophoric (audio) , -ˈfär-\

Definition of pyrophoric

1 : igniting spontaneously
2 : emitting sparks when scratched or struck especially with steel

Examples of pyrophoric in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 Intel, Nov. 11, 1986 (Aloha): A pyrophoric gas silane cylinder leaks through a valve and catches fire. — Mike Rogoway, OregonLive.com, "Portland startup Bright.md reports $8 million investment," 17 July 2017

First Known Use of pyrophoric

1788, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for pyrophoric

New Latin pyrophorus, from Greek pyrophoros fire-bearing, from pyr- + -phoros carrying — more at -phore

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