1. a flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixture used as an illuminant or fuel, especially in lamps; a type of mineral oil or paraffin oil.
Usage: archaic; chiefly historical

Examples

• In the 19th century, photogene was a common fuel for household lamps before electricity became widespread.
• The merchant sold bottles of photogene to customers who needed reliable lighting for their homes.
• Photogene lamps were gradually replaced by electric bulbs in the early 20th century.
• The chemical composition of photogene made it suitable for burning in simple oil lamps.