Locofoco

[ loh-koh-foh-koh ]

noun

1. (sometimes lowercase) a member of the radical faction of the New York City Democrats, organized in 1835 to oppose the conservative members of the party.
2. (lowercase) a friction match or cigar developed in the 19th century, ignited by rubbing against any hard, dry surface.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Locofoco¹

Special use of locofoco (cigar), self-lighting, rhyming compound apparently based on loco(motive), taken to mean self-moving; -foco, alteration of Italian fuoco fire < Latin focus fireplace

Example Sentences

You would find a Locofoco majority as much addicted to Class Legislation as a factitious aristocracy.

From Project Gutenberg

The driver was a stubborn Locofoco, and Benson did not disdain to enter into an elaborate argument with him.

From Project Gutenberg

A Locofoco is the only intelligible term: a fellow that would set any place on fire to roast his own eggs.

From Project Gutenberg

Four or five years afterward their enemies invented for their benefit the meaningless and hideous word "Locofoco."

From Project Gutenberg

But now, should you go thither to seek him, you would inquire in vain for the Locofoco Surveyor.

From Project Gutenberg