[fyoo-uh
l] 
noun, verb, -eled, -el⋅ing or (especially British) -elled, -el⋅ling.| 1. | combustible matter used to maintain fire, as coal, wood, oil, or gas, in order to create heat or power. |
| 2. | something that gives nourishment; food. |
| 3. | an energy source for engines, power plants, or reactors: Kerosene is used as jet engine fuel. |
| 4. | something that sustains or encourages; stimulant: Our discussion provided him with fuel for debate. |
| 5. | to supply with fuel. |
| 6. | to obtain or replenish fuel. |
fuel (fy 'əl) Pronunciation Key
A substance that produces useful energy when it undergoes a chemical or nuclear reaction. Fuel such as coal, wood, oil, or gas provides energy when burned. Compounds in the body such as glucose are broken down into simpler compounds to provide energy for metabolic processes. Some radioactive substances, such as plutonium and tritium, provide energy by undergoing nuclear fission or fusion. |