Sparking: meaning, definitions and examples

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sparking

[ˈspɑːrkɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

electricity

To produce sparks or small flashes of light due to electricity.

Synonyms

ignite, light up, spark.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sparking	Used to describe small flashes of light caused by electricity or friction. Can also be used metaphorically to indicate the beginning of an intense reaction or interest. The wires were sparking Her speech was sparking a lot of interest in the topic
spark	Can refer to a small piece of burning material or a short flash of light. Commonly used to indicate the beginning of something, like an idea, event, or reaction. The campfire threw off a spark that landed on dry grass His joke sparked an idea for the story
ignite	Often used to describe the act of starting a fire literally. Metaphorically, it can describe starting a strong feeling, such as excitement or anger. He used a match to ignite the firewood The news report ignited a debate among the viewers
light up	Typically used to describe making something physically brighter or lighter by adding light. Can also be used to describe someone becoming visibly excited or happy. The streetlights will light up as soon as it gets dark Her face lit up when she heard the good news

Examples of usage

The wires were sparking due to a short circuit.
The defective electrical outlet was sparking dangerously.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

fireworks

A small fiery particle thrown off from a fire, alight in ashes, or produced by striking together two hard surfaces such as stone or metal.

Synonyms

embers, flares, sparks.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sparking	Used when referring to the action of producing sparks, especially in a mechanical or electronic context. The malfunctioning engine was sparking dangerously. He saw wires sparking and immediately turned off the power.
sparks	Commonly used to describe small, fiery particles that fly out from a fire, or metaphorically to indicate the beginning of something, like an idea or activity. The welding process produced many sparks. Their argument sparked a debate among the group.
embers	Refers to the glowing remains of a fire, which can still emit some heat and light. We sat around the campfire, watching the embers glow in the dark. Don't touch the embers; they might still be hot.
flares	Usually describes a sudden burst of bright light or a sudden increase in intensity, such as in a fire or emotion. The fire flared up as soon as he added more wood. Her anger flared when she saw the broken vase.

Examples of usage

The fireworks lit up the sky with colorful sparkings.
He struck the flint and steel together, creating sparks.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'spark' comes from the Old English 'spearca,' which referred to a small glowing particle.
Historically, sparking was closely associated with fire-making techniques, like striking flint to produce light.
The verb 'spark' evolved in meanings, extending beyond fire to describe the initiation of ideas or excitement.

Science

Sparking occurs in electrical circuits when there’s a sudden flow of electricity, causing a brief flash.
In physics, when metals collide, sparking can happen due to the heat generated by friction.
In chemistry, sparking can ignite gases or fuels, leading to combustion, demonstrating energy release.

Pop Culture

In movies, the moment a character feels a ‘spark’ of attraction often leads to romance, illustrating emotional connections.
Music uses the term 'spark' to describe the moment a song captures the listener’s attention, similar to an emotional ignition.
The concept of a 'spark' has appeared in various sayings, like 'sparking joy,' which emphasizes the importance of positive feelings.

Literature

Sparking is often used metaphorically in literature to describe the moment an idea ignites creativity or passion in characters.
Famous writers have likened inspiration to a ‘spark’, implying that creativity can be sudden and unexpected.
In poetry, the image of a spark can represent hope or change, symbolizing a new beginning emerging from darkness.

Technology

In the world of electronics, sparking can indicate a malfunction or short circuit, alerting users to take caution.
Sparking technologies, such as spark plugs, are critical in engines, igniting fuel for combustion to power vehicles.
In coding and robotics, 'spark' is often used to refer to triggers that initiate processes or responses in systems.

Translations

Translations of the word "sparking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 faísca

🇮🇳 चमकता हुआ

🇩🇪 funkelnd

🇮🇩 berkilau

🇺🇦 іскристий

🇵🇱 iskrzący

🇯🇵 きらめく

🇫🇷 étincelant

🇪🇸 chispeante

🇹🇷 kıvılcımlı

🇰🇷 반짝이는

🇸🇦 متألق

🇨🇿 jiskřící

🇸🇰 iskrivý

🇨🇳 闪闪发光的

🇸🇮 iskriv

🇮🇸 neista

🇰🇿 жарқыраған

🇬🇪 ციმციმი

🇦🇿 parlaq

🇲🇽 chispeante

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,124, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
21121 counterfeiting
21122 skate
21123 crotch
21124 sparking
21125 terminally
21126 pajamas
21127 elaborating
...