- firework
- firework fire"work` (f[imac]r"w[^u]rk`), n.
1. A device for producing a striking display of light, or a
figure or figures in plain or colored fire, by the
combustion of materials that burn in some peculiar manner,
as gunpowder, sulphur, metallic filings, and various
salts; also called a {pyrotechnic device}. The most common
feature of fireworks is a paper or pasteboard tube filled
with the combustible material. A number of these tubes or
cases are often combined so as to make, when kindled, a
great variety of figures in fire, often variously colored.
The skyrocket is a common form of firework. The art of
designing fireworks for purposes of entertainment is
called {pyrotechnics}. The name firework is also given to
various combustible preparations used in war.
2. pl. A pyrotechnic exhibition; an entertainment consisting of the discharge of fireworks[1]. [Obs. in the sing.] [1913 Webster +PJC]
Night before last, the Duke of Richmond gave a firework. --Walpole. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.
