globe lightning

1 definition found

globe lightning - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Fireball \Fire"ball`\, n.
     1. (Mil.) A ball filled with powder or other combustibles,
        intended to be thrown among enemies, and to injure by
        explosion; also, to set fire to their works and light them
        up, so that movements may be seen.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. A rare phenomenon often associated with or caused by
        lightning, resembling a luminous ball of fire passing
        rapidly through the air or along solid objects, then
        disappearing, and sometimes exploding. It seldom lasts
        more than a few seconds. Also called ball lightning,
        globe lightning, globular lightning, or kugelblitz.
        [Webster 1913 Suppl. +PJC]
  
     3. A large mass of fire caused by a large explosion, as of
        inflammable liquids or a nuclear device. The larger
        fireballs, as of nuclear explosions, rise seemingly intact
        into the air and may reach high altitudes while still
        glowing.
        [PJC]