firework
nounUS /ˈfaɪɚˌwɚk/
Etymology From fire + work.
1
Usually A device using gunpowder and other chemicals which, when lit, emits a combination of coloured flames, sparks, whistles or bangs, and sometimes made to rocket high into the sky before exploding, used for entertainment or celebration.
- Commercial firework displays are commonly launched from boats or other vessels
- Fireworks went off after Australia won the World Cup.
1 more example
- Saltpetre being the principal ingredient in fireworks, and a volatile body, by reaſon of its aqueous and aërial parts, is eaſily rarified by fire; but not ſo ſoon when foul and groſs, as when purified from its crude and earthy parts, which greatly retard its velocity: therefore, when any quantity of Fireworks are to be made, it ſhould be examined; for if it is not well cleanſed, and of a good ſort, your works will not have their proper effect; […]1776, Robert Jones, John Muller, “Sect. I. Saltpetre.”, in Artificial Fireworks, Improved to the Modern Practice, from the Minutest to the Highest Branches; … Also, Mr. Muller's Fireworks, for Sea and Land Service, …, 2nd corr. edition, London: Printed for J. Millan, near Whitehall, →OCLC, page 1:
- Derived terms
- fireworker, fireworkless, fireworklike, fireworky