Sparkler: meaning, definitions and examples

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sparkler

[ˈspɑːr.kəl.ər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

celebration

A hand-held firework that emits a shower of sparks and often colored flames, used especially for celebrations.

Synonyms

bengal light, catherine wheel, firework.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sparkler	Used for small hand-held fireworks that emit bright, colorful sparks. They are commonly used at celebrations like weddings, birthday parties, or Fourth of July events due to their simplicity and safety. Kids were laughing and waving sparklers around during the backyard barbecue She lit a sparkler as the clock struck midnight to ring in the New Year
firework	A general term that encompasses a variety of pyrotechnic devices used for entertainment purposes, from small sparklers to massive aerial shells. Fireworks are often associated with large public celebrations, such as New Year's Eve, Independence Day, or major sporting events. The city organized a massive fireworks display for New Year's Eve We watched the fireworks light up the sky from our rooftop
catherine wheel	Refers to a type of firework that spins around, creating a circular display of sparks. These are typically mounted on a post or wall and are used for visual entertainment during fireworks displays. The highlight of the fireworks show was a giant Catherine wheel that spun around and illuminated the night sky with sparks We mounted a small Catherine wheel on the fence for our backyard celebration
bengal light	Often used to describe fireworks that produce a bright, steady light, usually white or yellowish. These are typically less dynamic than other fireworks and are used to create ambiance or to draw attention to a particular area or event. The theater used Bengal lights to illuminate the actors on stage during the dramatic scene During the outdoor concert, Bengal lights lit up the path to the entrance

Examples of usage

The children waved sparklers in the air on New Year's Eve.
The sparkler lit up the night sky with its colorful display.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

tool

A metal wire coated with a combustible compound that burns slowly, used to create a small fire for lighting cigarettes, candles, or other items.

Synonyms

igniter, lighter, matchstick.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sparkler	Used for celebrations, parties, or festive events. It creates bright sparks and is often enjoyed by people during fireworks displays or special occasions. Kids loved waving sparklers during the Fourth of July celebration She lit a sparkler at the stroke of midnight to welcome the New Year
lighter	Commonly used for lighting cigarettes, candles, or small fires. It is a portable device that produces a flame when activated, typically found in pockets or purses. He used a lighter to illuminate the candle during the power outage She always carried a lighter regardless of whether she smoked or not
igniter	Refers to a device or factor that initiates combustion or starts a fire, often in technical or industrial settings. It can be used in various pieces of equipment like stoves or engines. The malfunctioning igniter prevented the stove from lighting Engineers replaced the igniter to ensure the machine operated smoothly
matchstick	A small stick coated with a substance that ignites when struck against a rough surface. It is a traditional and disposable way to start a fire, often found in matchboxes. He struck a matchstick to light the campfire in the woods She always kept a matchbox in her kitchen drawer just in case

Examples of usage

She used a sparkler to light the candles on the birthday cake.
The sparkler provided a convenient way to start the campfire.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

Sparklers were invented in the 19th century, around 1835, in France.
They were initially made using metal rods dipped in a mixture of chemicals for a bright glow.
The use of sparklers became popular in celebrations and festivals over the years, especially on Independence Day in the United States.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, sparklers are used during celebrations like weddings and birthdays to add joy and excitement.
They are often featured in New Year’s Eve celebrations worldwide, symbolizing fun and festivity.
In some countries, sparklers are a traditional part of Diwali, the festival of lights, representing the triumph of light over darkness.

Science

Sparklers burn at temperatures exceeding 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, making the light they produce very bright.
The bright sparks are created by the burning metal powder mixed with other flammable materials.
Different chemical compositions can change the color of the sparks, using elements like strontium for red or barium for green.

Safety

Although sparklers are often seen as safe for children, they can cause burns and should always be handled with care.
It’s recommended to keep sparklers away from flammable materials and to supervise their use at all times.
In some places, laws restrict the use of sparklers due to safety concerns, emphasizing the need for responsible enjoyment.

Art and Entertainment

Sparklers have been used by artists in photography to create stunning light trails in long exposure shots.
They are often integrated into performances such as stage shows and dance routines to create visual effects.
Sparklers have also made appearances in film scenes, especially during festive celebrations to enhance the atmosphere.

Translations

Translations of the word "sparkler" in other languages:

🇵🇹 foguete de faísca

🇮🇳 चिंगारी स्टिक

🇩🇪 Wunderkerze

🇮🇩 kembang api

🇺🇦 бенгальський вогонь

🇵🇱 zimne ognie

🇯🇵 線香花火 (せんこうはなび)

🇫🇷 cierge magique

🇪🇸 bengala

🇹🇷 maytap

🇰🇷 불꽃놀이

🇸🇦 مفرقعات يدوية

🇨🇿 prskavka

🇸🇰 prskavka

🇨🇳 仙女棒 (xiānnǚ bàng)

🇸🇮 iskrica

🇮🇸 bengalskur eldur

🇰🇿 жарқырауық

🇬🇪 ციმციმა

🇦🇿 şaqulu

🇲🇽 bengala

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,705, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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39702 circumcising
39703 tiler
39704 lissome
39705 sparkler
39706 barrelling
39707 subversively
39708 doodled
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