firework

2 definitions found

firework - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  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]

firework - WordNet (r) 2.1 (2005) :

  firework
      n 1: (usually plural) a device with an explosive that burns at a
           low rate and with colored flames; can be used to illuminate
           areas or send signals etc. [syn: firework, pyrotechnic]