Firework

2 definitions found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:

  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]

From WordNet (r) 2.0 [wn]:

  firework
       n : (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: {pyrotechnic}]