pyrotechnics

American  

[pahy-ruh-tek-niks] / ˌpaɪ rəˈtɛk nɪks /

Also pyrotechny

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. the art of making fireworks.

   My dad's friend studied pyrotechnics and made us firecrackers for our birthdays.

2. the use of fireworks for display, military purposes, etc..

   That department is in charge of coordinating and monitoring pyrotechnics.

3. a display of fireworks.

   The breathtaking pyrotechnics were the highlight of the concert.

4. a brilliant or sensational display, such as of rhetoric or musicianship.

   His verbal pyrotechnics stunned audiences at the debate.

5. Military. ammunition containing chemicals for producing smoke or light, as for signaling, illuminating, or screening.

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pyrotechnics British  

/ ˌpaɪrəʊˈtɛknɪks /

noun

1. (functioning as singular) the art or craft of making fireworks

2. (functioning as singular or plural) a firework display

3. (functioning as singular or plural) brilliance of display, as in the performance of music

   keyboard pyrotechnics

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Other Word Forms

• pyrotechnic adjective

Etymology

Origin of pyrotechnics

First recorded in 1710–20; pyrotechnic, -ics

Explanation

If you've ever seen the sky adorned with the brilliant, glittering colors of fireworks, then you've witnessed pyrotechnics — the art and science of creating fireworks and other spectacular displays using controlled explosions and chemical reactions. The field of pyrotechnics involves designing and setting off fireworks, sparklers, and other devices that produce colorful lights, loud sounds, and impressive effects. Pyrotechnics are often used in celebrations, concerts, and special events to entertain and amaze audiences. The skillful creation of these explosive displays requires a deep understanding of chemistry and safety measures to ensure a breathtaking yet secure show.

Example Sentences

A county Building Services Department official received a tip that the property was being used by two pyrotechnics businesses in June 2022, according to the report.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

For 35 years, Mr. Self has continued in a similar vein, dazzling and sometimes wearying his readers with his madcap plots and lexical pyrotechnics.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

Liuyang, where the pyrotechnics trade dates back more than 1,000 years, produces around 60 percent of the fireworks sold in China and 70 percent of those exported.

From Barron's • Feb. 13, 2026

Videos captured people murmuring confusedly, presuming technical difficulties, before the truth dawned on the crowd that pyrotechnics would not be forthcoming.

From Salon • Jan. 21, 2026

Tal’s style was filled with wild, inspired combinations, intuitive sacrifices, and pyrotechnics.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady