~ 1
■ noun
1》 a small fiery particle thrown off from a fire, alight in ashes, or produced by striking together two surfaces.
2》 a light produced by a sudden disruptive electrical discharge through the air.
↘a discharge such as this serving to ignite the explosive mixture in an internal-combustion engine.
3》 a small but concentrated amount or trace: a tiny ~ of anger.
↘a sense of liveliness and excitement.
■ verb
1》 emit ~s.
↘produce ~s at the point where an electric circuit is interrupted.
2》 ignite.
3》 (usu. ~ something off ) provide the stimulus for.
Phrases
~ out Brit. informal completely unconscious.
Derivatives
~less adjective
Origin
OE spærca , spearca , of unknown origin.
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~ 2
■ noun (in phr. bright ~ ) a lively person.
■ verb archaic engage in courtship.
Derivatives
~ish adjective
Origin
C16: prob. from ~ 1 .