A friction lighter is commonly known as a what?

A friction lighter is commonly known as a striker because it is a device that generates a flame through the friction of striking two surfaces together, often igniting a combustible material. The term "striker" is specifically used in the context of ignition devices that function through the mechanical action of striking, which is essential for creating the spark needed to initiate combustion.

While igniters, starters, and flame tools may refer to other devices or methods of producing fire or flame, they do not specifically capture the mechanism and function of a friction lighter as effectively as "striker." Igniters tend to encompass a broader range of ignition devices, starters generally refer to tools used to start engines or processes, and flame tools may include a variety of equipment used to manipulate or direct flames but do not specifically denote the friction-starting mechanism. Thus, the choice of "striker" encapsulates the precise action that characterizes a friction lighter.