pilot light


noun

Also called pilot, pilot burner. a small flame kept burning continuously, as in a gas stove or furnace, to relight the main gas burners whenever necessary or desired.

Origin of pilot light

First recorded in 1885–90

British Dictionary definitions for pilot light

pilot light

noun

a small auxiliary flame that ignites the main burner of a gas appliance when the control valve opens
a small electric light used as an indicator