What's the Difference Between 'Igniter' and 'Ignitor'?

In this blog post we look at when to use igniter and when to use ignitor.

'Igniter' or 'Ignitor'?

An igniter and an ignitor are both devices that are used to start a fire or initiate a chemical reaction. However, while both spellings are accepted, "igniter" is more commonly used in everyday language and technical fields.

An igniter is a device that is used to start a fire by creating a spark or heat source. It is often used in gas appliances such as stoves and ovens, as well as in certain types of engines and fireworks.

An igniter typically uses a spark or an electric current to create a flame, which is then used to start the fire. It is the most common spelling used in technical fields, such as in the context of combustion engines, gas appliances, and pyrotechnics.

The spelling "ignitor" is less commonly used, though it is still recognized and accepted.

In conclusion, both "igniter" and "ignitor" are accepted spellings for devices used to start a fire or initiate a chemical reaction. However, "igniter" is more commonly used and recognized in everyday language and technical fields.

It is important to be aware of the difference in usage and to choose the appropriate spelling when communicating in technical or scientific fields.

Here are some examples of the spellings "igniter" and "ignitor" in context:

  1. The gas stove wouldn't start, so I had to replace the igniter.

  2. The fireworks show was spectacular, thanks to the precise timing of the ignitors.

  3. The scientists used an igniter to initiate the chemical reaction in the lab experiment.

  4. The pilot lit the afterburner using the igniter switch.

  5. The engineer replaced the faulty igniter in the combustion engine.

  6. The furnace wouldn't turn on, so the technician checked the ignitor.

  7. The barbecue grill wouldn't start, so I checked the ignitor.

  8. The mechanic replaced the faulty ignitor in the diesel engine.


Igniter or Ignitor
Igniter or Ignitor

Sources:

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/igniter