magneto

(mag nētō)

noun pl. magnetos

an electric generator in which one or more permanent magnets produce the magnetic field; esp., a small machine of this sort connected with and run by an internal-combustion engine, used to generate the electric current providing a spark for the ignition

Origin: see magnet

  1. magnetism, magnetic force: magnetometer
  2. magnetoelectric: magnetohydrodynamics

Origin: see magnet

See magneto in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. mag·ne·tos
A device that produces alternating current for distribution to the spark plugs, used in the ignition systems of some internal-combustion engines.

Origin:

Origin: Short for magnetoelectric machine

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or magnet-

prefix
  1. Magnetism; magnetic: magnetoelectric.
  2. Magnetic field: magnetometer.

Origin:

Origin: From magnet

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