firework
Americannoun
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fireworks
plural
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Often fireworks. a combustible or explosive device for producing a striking display of light or a loud noise, used for signaling or as part of a celebration.
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fireworks,
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a pyrotechnic display.
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a display of violent temper or fierce activity.
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any spectacular display, especially of wit or of a technical feat by a musician or dancer.
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noun
Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
Etymology
Origin of firework
Explanation
Fireworks are small explosive devices that produce colorful, glittering lights in the night sky. A typical July Fourth fireworks display uses hundreds of individual fireworks. The word fireworks, coined in the 16th century, is usually plural, whether it's referring to the device itself or a show featuring the brilliant, noisy bursts of colored light. You might ask a friend on New Year's Eve, "Are you going to see the fireworks tonight?" Figuratively, the word is perfect for describing a heated clash or conflict: "There's always fireworks when those two start arguing about politics!"
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
See Examples For:
A teenager blinded by a firework on Bonfire Night has called for a ban on them being sold to the public.
From BBC ● Aug. 22, 2026
The former reality TV star capped the evening with flyovers by military jets followed by a world record firework display featuring 850,000 rockets in 40 minutes.
From Barron's ● Aug. 22, 2026
He could turn Real back into a juggernaut, or it could all blow up in a firework of recrimination and newspaper headlines.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 18, 2026
Another study focused on chemicals called amines, which are included in some firework formulations.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 4, 2026
A Yes! firework went off inside Genie’s head.
From "As Brave As You" by Jason Reynolds
However it has also stated in documents that misuse of fireworks is "relatively limited in number across the East Dunbartonshire area" and that it does not receive many complaints.
From BBC ● Oct. 30, 2026
Some local authorities have also imposed restrictions on the sale and transport of gasoline and fireworks.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 24, 2026
He looked full of purpose as he took his time on stage, fireworks exploding in front of him, his usual smile replaced by a look of determination.
From BBC ● Oct. 17, 2026
In Paris, police fired a water cannon and teargas after hundreds of protesters, most wearing face masks and some setting off fireworks, confronted them at several locations, AFP reporters saw.
From Barron's ● Oct. 17, 2026
The roof of our apartment building is the best place to watch fireworks, so that’s where me, Mama, Charlie, Miz Rita, and Sneaky are.
From "Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero" by Kelly J. Baptist
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Get a wordDefinitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
