A ceramic electrode (122) for a gliding electric arc system. The ceramic electrode (122) includes a ceramic fin (200) defining a spine (202), a heel (206), and a tin (208). A discharge edge (204) of the ceramic fin (200) definces a diverging profile approximately from the heel (206) of the ceramic fin (200) to the tip (208) of the ceramic fin (200). A mounting surface (210) coupled to the ceramic fin (200) facilitates mounting the ceramic fin (200) within the gliding electric arc system. One or more ceramic electrodes (122) may be used in the gliding arc system or other systems which at least partially oxidize a combustile material.