Definition
A property of a material that causes it to stop burning on its own once the source of ignition is removed. Self-extinguishing materials may catch fire while a flame is applied, but they will not continue to burn or propagate flame after that flame is taken away.
Plain English
The material may burn while something is actively setting it on fire, but as soon as that flame is removed, the burning stops by itself.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft material descriptions, especially for cabin materials, wire covering, hoses, and other parts where fire resistance matters.
Derivation
From 'self' (acting on its own) and 'extinguish,' from the Latin 'extinguere,' meaning 'to put out' or 'quench.' So the word literally describes a material that puts itself out.
Why Pilots Care
Limits fire spread inside the cabin, giving occupants more time to evacuate safely during an emergency.
Intuition Check
Self-extinguishing does not mean fireproof. It means the material is designed to stop burning after the outside flame or heat source is gone.
Example Sentence 1
The seat cushions in this aircraft are made from a self-extinguishing foam to meet FAA cabin safety standards.
Example Sentence 2
Technicians confirmed the new insulation panels were self-extinguishing before installation in the cargo compartment.