sparkplug

[ spahrk-pluhg ]

verb (used with object)

, Informal.

, spark·plugged, spark·plug·ging.

1. to lead, inspire, or animate something or someone.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sparkplug¹

v. use of spark plug

Example Sentences

John Doe is holding his bass and tackling vocal duties, while his longtime tag team partner, the band’s sparkplug Exene Cervenka, is also testing the mic with her vocals.

From Los Angeles Times

Two years removed from his breakout 2022 campaign — when he batted .276, had an above-league-average OPS+ and led the NL with seven triples — the 26-year-old has yet to consistently become a bottom-of-the-order sparkplug again, thanks in no small part to the torn ACL he suffered last spring.

From Los Angeles Times

“Once we get Julio going and he’s driving the ball out of the yard like that, I mean that’s a good thing for us because he’s kind of a sparkplug for this team,” Garver said.

From Seattle Times

With Irving out of the lineup, Jones, who only scored a total of five points in Dallas’ first two games, was the offensive sparkplug to fill the void.

From Washington Times

The converted running back has been a sparkplug for the Bruins’ offense in each of the last two games, rushing for a combined 76 yards and two touchdowns in only six carries while often motioning into the backfield.

From Los Angeles Times

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