1. a colorless liquid hydrocarbon found in petroleum, used as a fuel and solvent
Usage: chemistry
2. a measure of gasoline’s resistance to engine knock, with higher numbers indicating better performance
Usage: automotive

Examples

• Octane is one of the main components of gasoline.
• The gas station offers regular, mid-grade, and premium octane fuel.
• High-performance cars require higher octane gasoline.
• The octane rating determines how much the fuel can be compressed before igniting.
• Premium gasoline typically has an octane rating of 91 or higher.
• Using low octane fuel in a high-performance engine can cause knocking.