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[1] 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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