firework
n.a small object that explodes to make loud noises and bright colors in the sky. People use them to celebrate special days like New Year's Eve.
n.a device containing gunpowder and other chemicals that causes a spectacular explosion when ignited. Often used in the plural to describe a public display of pyrotechnics.
“We watched a giant firework explode over the lake.”
“The city spent thousands of dollars on a firework display to celebrate the national holiday.”
“As the final firework ascended, the crowd fell silent, waiting for the thunderous boom and the subsequent shower of shimmering gold light to fill the night sky.”
Commonly used in the plural ('fireworks') when referring to a show or a general celebration.
“Barcelona will also be hosting its biggest celebration of the year - La Mercè - with lots of concerts, street theatre, dancing giants and fireworks.”
“Durham Police said a large crowd gathered on a privately owned field near Haswell, County Durham, on Thursday evening where five vehicles were set on fire and balloons, flares, and fireworks were released.”
From fire + work.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.