English

Alternative forms

• match stick

Noun

matchstick ‎(plural matchsticks)

1. A small, slender piece of wood or cardboard serving as a component of a match.

   The end of the matchstick is dipped in a sulfurous compound to turn it into a complete match.

2. Any similarly small and thin pieces; frequently used in the plural.

   The explosion blew the powder shed to matchsticks.

Synonyms

• (generic small thin piece): shred, sliver, splinter

Translations