Definition of "firework" []

• A device consisting of a combination of explosives and combustibles, set off to generate colored lights, smoke, and noise for amusement. (noun)
• A display of such devices. (noun)
• An exciting or spectacular display, as of musical virtuosity. (noun)
• A display of rage or fierce contention. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "The whole thing just a firework, which is merely for viewing pleasure."
• "The color of a compound in a firework will be the same as its color in a flame test."
• "The fuses were the rigid kind of firework lighter things that glow for ages - the scientists amongst us had had great fun experimenting with these to get the timings right."