firework

American  

[fahyuhr-wurk] / ˈfaɪərˌwɜrk /

noun

• fireworks
  plural

1. 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.

2. fireworks,

   1. a pyrotechnic display.

   2. a display of violent temper or fierce activity.

   3. any spectacular display, especially of wit or of a technical feat by a musician or dancer.

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firework British  

/ ˈfaɪəˌwɜːk /

noun

1. a device, such as a Catherine wheel, Roman candle, or rocket, in which combustible materials are ignited and produce coloured flames, sparks, and smoke, sometimes accompanied by bangs

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• fireworks
  plural

Etymology

Origin of firework

First recorded in 1550–60; fire + work

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

See Examples For:

firework fireworks

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

They also cited "ongoing noise nuisance caused by anti-social, late-night firework use in recent days" and also advised people against using disposable barbecues.

From BBC ● Aug. 13, 2026

With the new heatwave, many towns throughout France have cancelled their firework displays, but many are usually set off illegally.

From Barron's ● Jul. 14, 2026

Capt. Kyle Stevens of the Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office told the San Francisco Chronicle that the office believed the roughly 6-inch-long object was a homemade firework.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 9, 2026

He was irritated and jumpy, like a firework throwing off sparks.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein

In June 2025, Sramek offered Suisun City a $55,000 grant for the local July 4 fireworks celebration and other events threatened by a budget shortfall.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 10, 2026

The local prosecutor's office said police were responding to two men around 20 metres away who had fired fireworks in their direction.

From Barron's ● Oct. 6, 2026

Don Trump Jr.’s wedding had everything: a private island, fireworks, a Funfetti cake airlifted in from Florida—everything but the groom’s dad.

From Slate ● Sep. 18, 2026

Photos showed dancing under disco balls, a white cake topped with figurines of a bride and groom and Donald Trump Jr. holding his new wife in his arms as fireworks erupt in the background.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 14, 2026

Public buildings and private homes glowed from candles, torches, gaslights, and fireworks.

From "Chasing Lincoln's Killer" by James L. Swanson

Related Words

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