Spark
Spark , noun
[Old English sparke, Anglo-Saxon spearca; akin to Dutch spark, sperk; compare Icelandic spraka to crackle, Lithuanian sprageti, Greek {not transcribed} a bursting with a noise, Sanskrit sph{not transcribed}rj to crackle, to thunder. Compare Speak.]
1.
A small particle of fire or ignited substance which is emitted by a body in combustion.
Man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward.
2.
A small, shining body, or transient light; a sparkle.
3.
That which, like a spark, may be kindled into a flame, or into action; a feeble germ; an elementary principle.
If any spark of life be yet remaining.
Small intellectual spark.
Vital spark of heavenly flame.
We have here and there a little clear light, some sparks of bright knowledge.
Bright gem instinct with music, vocal spark.
Collocations (1)
Spark arrester , a contrivance to prevent the escape of sparks while it allows the passage of gas, -- chiefly used in the smokestack of a wood-burning locomotive. Called also spark consumer. [United States]
Spark , noun
[Icelandic sparkr lively, sprightly.]
1.
A brisk, showy, gay man.
The finest sparks and cleanest beaux.
2.
A lover; a gallant; a beau.
Spark , intransitive verb
1.
To sparkle. [Obsolete] — Spenser
2.
(Electricity) To produce, or give off, sparks, as a dynamo at the commutator when revolving under the collecting brushes.
Spark , intransitive verb
To play the spark, beau, or lover.
A sure sign that his master was courting, or, as it is termed, sparking, within.