safety match

American  

noun

1. a match designed to ignite only when rubbed on a specially prepared surface.

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safety match British  

noun

1. a match that will light only when struck against a specially prepared surface

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Etymology

Origin of safety match

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

She struck a safety match, and flames roared 20 feet into the air, until only her two out stretched hands were visible.

From Time Magazine Archive

“Have sent,” said his entertainer briefly, as he filled a pipe from the open tobacco box and struck a safety match.

From Found in the Philippines The Story of a Woman's Letters by King, Charles

"The only fire I can light is with a safety match and the valve of a gas-stove!" replied Barbara, quaintly.

From Polly of Pebbly Pit by Roy, Lillian Elizabeth

It may be interesting to know that a large match emits about as much light as a burning candle and a so-called safety match about one third as much.

From Artificial Light Its Influence upon Civilization by Luckiesh, Matthew

The so-called safety match of the present time was invented in the year 1855.

From Artificial Light Its Influence upon Civilization by Luckiesh, Matthew