'Congreve match' definitions:

Definition of 'Congreve match'

From: GCIDE
  • Congreve \Con"greve\, n. [After Sir William Congreve, the inventor.]
  • 1. Short for Cogreve rocket, a powerful form of rocket formerly used in war, either in the field or for bombardment. In the former case it was armed with shell, shrapnel, or other missiles; in the latter, with an inextinguishable explosive material, inclosed in a metallic case. It was guided by a long wooden stick. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
  • 2. Short for
  • Congreve match, an early friction match, containing sulphur, potassium chlorate, and antimony sulphide. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]