propane

noun

pro·​pane ˈprō-ˌpān How to pronounce propane (audio)
: a heavy flammable gaseous alkane C3H8 found in crude petroleum and natural gas and used especially as fuel and in chemical synthesis

Examples of propane in a Sentence

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.
Earlier in the investigation, fire officials thought a propane delivery that happened on the day of the blast might have caused the explosion. — Bryan Lynn, CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026 Perhaps the most difficult part would be remembering to remove the propane burner and re-seat after folding/unfolding. — New Atlas, 27 Aug. 2026 During a search of the vehicle, crews discovered multiple propane tanks below the bus and a vast amount of luggage, the outlets reported. — Sam Gillette, PEOPLE, 24 Aug. 2026 Locate firewood and propane gas tanks at least 50 feet from the structure. — Sarah Perkel, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for propane

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary prop- + -ane

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propane was in 1867

Rhymes for propane

See All Rhymes for propane

Browse Nearby Words

propanal
propane
propanil
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Propane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propane. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

propane

noun
pro·​pane ˈprō-ˌpān How to pronounce propane (audio)
: a heavy flammable gas found in crude petroleum and natural gas and used especially as fuel and in the chemical industry

Medical Definition

propane

noun
pro·​pane ˈprō-ˌpān How to pronounce propane (audio)
: a heavy flammable gaseous alkane C3H8 found in crude petroleum and natural gas and used especially as fuel and in chemical synthesis

More from Merriam-Webster on propane

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about propane

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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