Word
fireworks
Phoneticsfire·works, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈfaɪɹˌwɝks/
UK/fˈaɪəwɜːks/
Definitions
01explosive displays
A2 · Elementary Plural noun
n. small objects that explode to make bright colors and loud noises in the sky during celebrations.
n. devices containing gunpowder and other chemicals that cause spectacular explosions when ignited, typically for public entertainment.
“The city organized a massive display of fireworks to celebrate the New Year.”
“Spectators gathered along the riverbank to witness the fireworks, which were synchronized to a classical music score for the festival finale.”
Synonyms
02angry arguments
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun Informal
n. a situation where people show a lot of anger or have a loud, exciting argument.
n. a figurative reference to a display of intense temper, passion, or conflict between individuals.
“There were fireworks in the office today when the manager found out about the mistake.”
“The board meeting promised fireworks as the two rival directors prepared to challenge each other's vision for the company's future.”
Synonyms
Etymology
From fire + work(s). The similarity with Dutch vuurwerk and German Feuerwerk, both “fireworks”, is hardly coincidental. Since the word was apparently first attested in English circa 1575, probably from the Dutch (1540), from the German (sense early 16th c.), from Middle High German viurwerc (14th c. as “fuel, firewood”). A spread from the south northwards is also in line with the fact that the first European fireworks were produced in Italy in the late 14th century.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Idioms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- A2 · Elementary
- Updated
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