firework
[fahyuh r-wurk]
- 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.
- fireworks,
- a pyrotechnic display.
- a display of violent temper or fierce activity.
- any spectacular display, especially of wit or of a technical feat by a musician or dancer.
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Origin of firework
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for fireworks
Contemporary Examples
More clumsily, fireworks stand in for the Big Bang and a potato and peas are invoked to explain relativity.
We sat on the grass, in the hot twilight, watching the fireworks burst in patriotic showers of light over Independence.
“The U.S. celebrates the day it became independent every year with fireworks rather than sorrow,” he said.
I remember my father leaving our July 4th fireworks party to go to Rome where my grandfather died.
Drones have been used to photograph everything from football games to fireworks displays.
Historical Examples
The Fireworks Music was scored for fifty-six wind instruments.
HandelEdward J. Dent
Well, then, le's have Fourth o' July fireworks next Sunday mornin'!
Tiverton TalesAlice Brown
Did you know you are to drive me into town in the phaeton for the fireworks?
The Gentleman From IndianaBooth Tarkington
These dismal shells, when they burst in the air, were like the fireworks at a fte.
My Double LifeSarah Bernhardt
Nevertheless, this colossal hospitality--apart from the fireworks--cost us nothing at all.
FreelandTheodor Hertzka
fireworks
- a show in which large numbers of fireworks are let off simultaneously
- informal an exciting or spectacular exhibition, as of musical virtuosity or wit
- informal a burst of temper
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firework
- 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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Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Word Origin and History for fireworks
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper