Roman candle

noun

1. a firework consisting of a tube that sends out a shower of sparks and a succession of balls of fire.

Roman candle

noun

1. a firework that produces a continuous shower of sparks punctuated by coloured balls of fire

Word History and Origins

Origin of Roman candle¹

First recorded in 1825–35

Word History and Origins

Origin of Roman candle¹

C19: so called from its having been originated in Italy

Example Sentences

Figure 295 shows the manner in which a Roman-candle can be attached to a kite-string.

From Project Gutenberg

The composition may also be pumped into roman candle streamer stars.

From Project Gutenberg

That appendage of No. 999 was shooting out 178 showers of sparks like a roman candle.

From Project Gutenberg

Any writer of the Roman-candle-volcanic tribe could have heaped up their fires, after a fashion.

From Project Gutenberg

If a roman candle is intended to be fired singly, twist a piece of touchpaper round the mouth.

From Project Gutenberg