a large pipeline in which gas is carried for distribution through smaller pipes to consumers
gas main in American English
a large underground pipe that conducts gas into smaller pipes leading into houses, factories, etc.
gas main in American English
noun
a large pipe for conducting and distributing gas to lesser pipes or ducts, esp. such a pipe carrying and distributing household gas beneath the streets of a town or city
Word origin
[1810–20]This word is first recorded in the period 1810–20. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: knockout, nihilism, realism, voodoo, zombie
Examples of 'gas main' in a sentence
gas main
An ambulance spokesman had earlier said that a gas main had exploded.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
When digging was resumed, another gas main ignited, leaving three sappers with burns.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
They generally live in rural areas and have no access to a gas main.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
Another fell seconds later nearby, catching theatregoers enjoying an interval drink and igniting a gas main.
The Sun (2015)
At one point they had to go outside to douse a fire after rioters tried to set a gas main alight.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
It flares out of control with two firefighters missing, then a gas main goes up and a fuse box explodes.
Times, Sunday Times (2018)
A probe into the cause is under way, but gas main issues have been ruled out.
The Sun (2018)
How do you replace more than 300 miles of gas mains every year, while at the same time make substantial cost savings?
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
The plant was in flames and separatists tried to switch off a nearby gas mains which had fractured.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
A large chunk of the extra 2 billion that companies can spend will go on replacing more old gas mains pipes.