First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1spark
noun \ˈspärk\
Definition of SPARK
1
a : a small particle of a burning substance thrown out by a body in combustion or remaining when combustion is nearly completed b : a hot glowing particle struck from a larger mass; especially : one heated by friction
2
a : a luminous disruptive electrical discharge of very short duration between two conductors separated by a gas (as air) b : the discharge in a spark plug c : the mechanism controlling the discharge in a spark plug
4
: something that sets off a sudden force <provided the spark that helped the team to rally>
5
: a latent particle capable of growth or developing : germ <still retains a spark of decency>
6
plural but sing in constr : a radio operator on a ship
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Origin of SPARK
Middle English sparke, from Old English spearca; akin to Middle Dutch sparke spark and perhaps to Latin spargere to scatter
Other Electrical Engineering Terms
2spark
verb
Definition of SPARK
intransitive verb1
a : to throw out sparks b : to flash or fall like sparks
2
: to produce sparks; specifically : to have the electric ignition working
3
: to respond with enthusiasm
transitive verb
1
: to set off in a burst of activity : activate <the question sparked a lively discussion> —often used with off
First Known Use of SPARK
13th century
3spark
noun
Definition of SPARK
1
: a foppish young man
Origin of SPARK
perhaps from 1spark
First Known Use: circa 1600
4spark
verb
Spark
biographical name \ˈspärk\
Definition of SPARK
Dame Muriel (Sarah) 1918–2006 née Camberg British writer
SPARK Defined for Kids
1spark
noun \ˈspärk\
Definition of SPARK for Kids
1
: a small bit of burning material <Sparks flew from a fire.>
2
: a hot glowing bit struck from a mass (as by steel on flint)
3
: a short bright flash of electricity between two points
4
: 2sparkle 1
5
: 1trace 2 <He showed a spark of interest.>
2spark
verb
sparkedspark·ing
Definition of SPARK for Kids
1
: to give off or cause to give off small bits of burning material or short bright flashes of electricity <The burning wood crackled and sparked.> <The wires made contact and sparked.>
2
: to set off <The question sparked a discussion.>
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