Capable of catching fire and burning spontaneously, without needing an external ignition source when exposed to air or moisture.
From auto- (self) + combustible (from Latin combustus, burned). This term describes materials that ignite through their own chemical properties, particularly when reaching certain temperatures or exposed to oxidizing conditions.
White phosphorus and oily rags stored in the wrong way are autocombustible—they can literally burst into flames on their own without anyone striking a match, which is why spontaneous fires in warehouses and old paintings' storage facilities are a real hazard.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.