Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Spark
Spark
,Noun.
[OE.
sparke
, AS. spearca
; akin to D. spark
, sperk
; cf. Icel. spraka
to crackle, Lith. spragëti
, Gr. [GREEK] a bursting with a noise, Skr. sph[GREEK]rj
to crackle, to thunder. Cf. 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. Job v. 7.
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.” Shak.
“Small intellectual spark.” Macaulay.
“Vital spark of heavenly flame.” Pope.
We have here and there a little clear light, some
sparks of bright knowledge
. Locke.
Bright gem instinct with music, vocal
spark
. Wordsworth.
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
. [U.S.]
Spark
,Noun.
[Icel.
sparkr
lively, sprightly.] 1.
A brisk, showy, gay man.
The finest
sparks
and cleanest beaux. Prior.
2.
A lover; a gallant; a beau.
Spark
,Verb.
I.
1.
To sparkle.
[Obs.]
Spenser.
Spark
,Verb.
I.
To play the spark, beau, or lover.
A sure sign that his master was courting, or, as it is termed,
sparking
, within. W. Irwing.
Webster 1828 Edition
Spark
SP'ARK
,Noun.
1.
A small particle of fire or ignited substance, which is emitted from bodies in combustion, and which either ascends with the smoke, or is darted in another direction.2.
A small shining body or transient light. We have here and there a little clear light, and some sparks of bright knowledge.3.
A small portion of any thing active. If any spark of life is yet remaining.4.
A very small portion. If you have a spark or generosity.5.
A brisk, showy, gay man. The finest sparks and cleanest beaux.6.
A lover.SP'ARK
,Verb.
I.