Firework
/ˈfaɪər.wɜːrk/noun
A device that produces bright colored lights, loud noises, or both when ignited.
Did you know?The English word appeared in the 17th century for pyrotechnic displays, and its roots are brutally literal: a “work” done by fire, not just a pretty show.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*péh₂wr̥
“fire”
Old English
OE
fȳr
“fire”
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*werg-
“to do, make, work”
Old English
OE
weorc
“work, deed, something made”
17th Century
English
firework
“a device or display made by fire and explosive composition”
Modern English
English
firework
“a pyrotechnic device used for display”