cigarette lighter: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral to informal. The term is understood across registers, but in very formal contexts, one might use a more descriptive phrase like 'portable ignition device' or specify the type (e.g., 'butane lighter').
Quick answer
What does “cigarette lighter” mean?
A small, portable device producing a flame to light cigarettes.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, portable device producing a flame to light cigarettes.
Any small, portable flame-producing device, typically using butane or other flammable fuel, for lighting cigarettes, cigars, candles, campfires, or other combustible materials. The term historically includes disposable models, refillable lighters, and novelty designs.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference. Both use 'cigarette lighter' and the shortened 'lighter'. Some specific brand names or types may have regional popularity.
Connotations
Neutral in both varieties. Slight historical association with mid-20th century smoking culture.
Frequency
Equally common in both dialects. The shortened form 'lighter' is dominant in casual speech.
Grammar
How to Use “cigarette lighter” in a Sentence
[Subject] + flick/click/use + [determiner] + cigarette lighter[Possessive] + cigarette lighter + is/does + ...There + is/are + [determiner] + cigarette lighter + ...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cigarette lighter” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He attempted to lighter the stubborn candlewick.
- I'll just lighter the barbecue.
American English
- She tried to lighter the campfire kindling.
- Can you lighter this fuse?
adjective
British English
- The lighter fluid was nearly empty.
- He owned a prized lighter collection.
American English
- The lighter mechanism was broken.
- She had a vintage lighter case.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in retail contexts (e.g., 'sales of cigarette lighters') or manufacturing.
Academic
Very rare, except in historical, sociological, or public health studies discussing smoking.
Everyday
Common, especially among smokers or in contexts requiring portable fire.
Technical
Rare. Specific types might be discussed in pyrotechnics or product design.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cigarette lighter”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cigarette lighter”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cigarette lighter”
- Incorrect: 'cigarette light' / 'cigaret lighter'. Correct: 'cigarette lighter'. Confusing 'lighter' (noun) with 'lighter' (comparative adjective).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In most everyday contexts, 'lighter' is perfectly sufficient and more common. Use 'cigarette lighter' for clarity or in formal descriptions.
A cigarette lighter is a reusable device containing fuel (like butane) and a sparking mechanism. A match is a single-use wooden or cardboard stick tipped with a combustible chemical.
Yes, absolutely. People commonly use them to light candles, gas stoves, campfires, fireworks, or to melt the ends of ropes.
Regulations vary. Typically, one disposable or Zippo-style lighter is permitted in carry-on luggage (but not checked bags) but must be kept on your person. Always check current airline and security rules before travelling.
A small, portable device producing a flame to light cigarettes.
Cigarette lighter is usually neutral to informal. the term is understood across registers, but in very formal contexts, one might use a more descriptive phrase like 'portable ignition device' or specify the type (e.g., 'butane lighter'). in register.
Cigarette lighter: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsɪɡ.əˌret ˈlaɪ.tər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsɪɡ.əˈret ˈlaɪ.t̬ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Lighter than air (different meaning)”
- “Out of fluid/lighter than a promise (informal, contextual)”
- “A flick and a spark (descriptive, not a fixed idiom)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the word 'cigarette' paired with 'lighter' – it 'lightens' (ignites) the cigarette.
Conceptual Metaphor
PORTABLE FIRE IS A TOOL; IGNITION IS A MECHANICAL ACTION (flick, click).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most common modern fuel for a cigarette lighter?