Definition
1. an object that explodes when you light it and produces coloured lights and loud noises
2. signs of strong emotions or impressive skills
Origin and usage
The word fireworks, meaning ‘pyrotechnics’, comes from the 1570s and combines the Old English word ‘fyr’ meaning ‘a fire’ and the Old English ‘work’ meaning ‘deeds or actions’. The figurative use of fireworks, meaning ‘a display of fierce activity’, was first coined sometime in the 1660s.
Examples
Fireworks is a noun that typically refers to a colourful explosion of lights and loud sounds, usually set off as part of a celebration or festival. The word fireworks can also sometimes refer to a display of strong emotion or intense activity (The fireworks came later in the day, as the star witness gave her testimony).
A lively fireworks show is a great way to celebrate a special occasion, and New Year’s Eve is a popular time for fireworks all over the world. As the holiday approaches, it’s a wonderful time to fine-tune your photography skills to capture those beautiful, colourful displays.
A smartphone is perfectly capable of taking excellent photographs of fireworks, so long as you make some adjustments to your camera settings. Turn off the flash, and make sure your camera’s HDR is off as well.
When it comes to choosing a subject, photograph your friends or loved ones as they take in the fireworks show to add depth to your photos.
Photo editing apps like VSCO and Snapseed make it easy to retouch less-than-perfect photos, and even Instagram’s built-in filters can help improve your fireworks photos before you share them on social media.
Quotations
“The candles all grew up to the ceiling, looking something like a bed of rushes with fireworks at the top.”
(Lewis Carroll, Through the Looking Glass)
View the full definition in the Macmillan Dictionary.
