magneto

n., pl., -tos.
A device that produces alternating current for distribution to the spark plugs, used in the ignition systems of some internal-combustion engines.

[Short for magnetoelectric machine.]

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A type of permanent-magnet alternating-current generator frequently used as a source of ignition energy on tractor, marine, industrial, and aviation engines. See also Alternating-current generator.

Modern induction-type magnetos consist of a permanent-magnet rotor and stationary low- and high-tension windings, also called the primary and secondary windings. The energy output of a magneto is obtained as a result of a rapid rate of change of flux through the stationary windings. The primary winding has comparatively few turns and the secondary winding has many thousand turns of fine wire. One end of the secondary winding is connected to an end of the primary winding and grounded to the frame of the magneto. The primary winding is closed on itself through a breaker mechanism actuated by a cam on the magneto shaft. The breaker is mechanically set to interrupt the primary circuit each time the flux through the winding is changing at its greatest rate. The sudden collapse of the primary current induces a very high voltage in the secondary winding. See also Ignition system; Internal combustion engine.

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The noun has one meaning:

Meaning #1: a small dynamo with a secondary winding that produces a high voltage enabling a spark to jump between the poles of a spark plug in a gasoline engine
  Synonym: magnetoelectric machine

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