fusee

American  

[fyoo-zee] / fyuˈzi /

Or fuzee

noun

1. a wooden friction match having a large head, formerly used when a larger than normal flame was needed.

2. a red flare light, used on a railroad as a warning signal to approaching trains.

3. Horology. a spirally grooved, conical pulley and chain arrangement for counteracting the diminishing power of the uncoiling mainspring.

4. fuse.

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fusee British  

/ fjuːˈziː /

noun

1. (in early clocks and watches) a spirally grooved spindle, functioning as an equalizing force on the unwinding of the mainspring

2. a friction match with a large head, capable of remaining alight in a wind

3. an explosive fuse

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Etymology

Origin of fusee

1580–90; < Middle French fusée spindleful, derivative of Old French fus spindle. See fuse ¹

Example Sentences

I have only fusees," he said grandly, "but perhaps they will do.

From Project Gutenberg

When Colonel Allen passed the gate, a sentinel snapped his fusee at him, and then retreated under a covered way.

From Project Gutenberg

For night signals not less than two torpedoes, two red fusees, and red and white lanterns.

From Project Gutenberg

Spindle, spin′dl, n. the pin from which the thread is twisted: a pin on which anything turns: the fusee of a watch: anything very slender.—v.i. to grow long and slender.—adjs.

From Project Gutenberg

All the men carried fusees, pistols, and hangers.

From Project Gutenberg