fossil fuel

noun

: a fuel (such as coal, oil, or natural gas) formed in the earth from plant or animal remains
fossil-fueled
ˈfä-səl-ˌfyü(-ə)ld How to pronounce fossil fuel (audio)
adjective

Examples of fossil fuel in a Sentence

oil and other fossil fuels
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.
Beyond powering vehicles, the wider machinic complex also depended on fossil fuels. — Literary Hub, 4 Sep. 2026 As the planet heats up, driven by humans burning fossil fuels, the oceans are changing. — Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 4 Sep. 2026 To be sure, scientists have not yet conclusively established that humanity’s burning of fossil fuels is increasing or intensifying El Niño. — Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026 Some Asian countries are also deepening their reliance on fossil fuels. — Angelica Ang, Fortune, 3 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fossil fuel

Word History

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fossil fuel was in 1759

Rhymes for fossil fuel

See All Rhymes for fossil fuel

Browse Nearby Words

fossil flour
fossil fuel
fossiliferous
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fossil fuel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fossil%20fuel. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

fossil fuel

noun
: a fuel (as coal, oil, or natural gas) that is formed in the earth from plant or animal remains

More from Merriam-Webster on fossil fuel

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fossil fuel

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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