noun
- a small electrical generator that uses permanent magnets to produce electric current, especially one used to provide ignition in internal combustion engines
Usage: technical
Examples
- The old tractor’s magneto needed to be replaced.
- Early aircraft engines relied on magnetos for ignition.
- The mechanic checked the magneto when the engine wouldn’t start.
- Magnetos were commonly used in motorcycles before electronic ignition systems.
- The vintage car’s magneto produced a weak spark.
- He wound the magneto by hand to generate electricity for the radio.