Definition

A device used in jet engines that increases power by burning extra fuel with the leftover oxygen in the exhaust gases.

Example

The fighter jet's afterburner allowed it to reach supersonic speeds.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an afterburner in jet engines?

Yeah, I think it boosts the thrust, right?

Exactly! It burns extra fuel to give that extra power.

That's pretty cool; I didn’t know how it worked!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Afterburner → It is formed from "after" (from Old English "æfter", meaning following in time or place) and "burner" (from "burn" which comes from Old English "byrnan", meaning to consume fuel with fire). The word "afterburner" refers to a device that burns fuel after the main combustion process, enhancing thrust or efficiency.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'follows' ('after') the main burning process ('burner') — that's why an afterburner is a device that burns fuel after the initial combustion.

Visually Confused Words