[spark] n [ME sparke, fr. OE spearca; akin to MD sparke spark and perh. to L spargere to scatter] (bef. 12c) 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; esp: 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
3: sparkle, flash
4: something that sets off a sudden force "provided the ~ that helped the team to rally"
5: a latent particle capable of growth or developing: germ "still retains a ~ of decency"
6. pl but sing in constr: a radio operator on a ship
[2]spark vi (13c) 1 a: to throw out sparks b: to flash or fall like sparks
2: to produce sparks; specif: to have the electric ignition working
3: to respond with enthusiasm ~ vt 1: to set off in a burst of activity: activate "the question ~ed a lively discussion" --often used with off
2: to stir to activity: incite "~ed her team to victory" -- spark.er n [3]spark n [perh. of Scand origin; akin to ON sparkr sprightly] (ca. 1600) 1: a foppish young man
2: lover, beau -- spark.ish adj [4]spark vb (1787): woo, court -- spark.er n