needfire

[ need-fahyuhr ]

noun

1. spontaneous combustion.
2. luminescence, as of rotted or decayed wood.

Word History and Origins

Origin of needfire¹

First recorded in 1525–35; need + fire

Example Sentences

Needfire was then obtained by friction, and all the fires were rekindled from what was regarded as the sacred flame.

From Project Gutenberg

The last time the “needfire” was used in the Keswick neighbourhood, Mr. William Wilson says, was in 1841.

From Project Gutenberg

The term “needfire” seems to be a corruption of “neatfire,” neat cattle being an old and common term.

From Project Gutenberg

I never heard of the use of the needfire in the Marsh, though it was, I believe, used on the wolds not many miles off.

From Project Gutenberg

As thou knowest, it seemed to me that I was watching two sparkles from the extinguished Needfire wheel.

From Project Gutenberg