Spark — Defs

01 n. A small particle of fire or ignited substance which is emitted by a body in combustion.

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.
“We have here and there a little clear light, some sparks of bright knowledge.” — Locke.

“Bright gem instinct with music, vocal spark.” — Wordsworth.

Phrases & compounds

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.

02 n. A brisk, showy, gay man.

1.
A brisk, showy, gay man.
“The finest sparks and cleanest beaux.” — Prior.
2.
A lover; a gallant; a beau.

03 v. i. To sparkle.

1.
To sparkle.[Obs.]
2.
To produce, or give off, sparks, as a dynamo at the commutator when revolving under the collecting brushes.(Elec.)

04 v. i. To play the spark, beau, or lover.

1.
To play the spark, beau, or lover.
“A sure sign that his master was courting, or, as it is termed, sparking, within.” — W. Irwing.