Fire"work` (?), n. 1. A device for producing a striking display of light, or a figure or figures in plain or colored fire, by the combustion of materials that burn in some peculiar manner, as gunpowder, sulphur, metallic filings, and various salts. The most common feature of fireworks is a paper or pasteboard tube filled with the combustible material. A number of these tubes or cases are often combined so as to make, when kindled, a great variety of figures in fire, often variously colored. The skyrocket is a common form of firework. The name is also given to various combustible preparations used in war.
[1913 Webster]

2. pl. A pyrotechnic exhibition. [Obs. in the sing.]

Night before last, the Duke of Richmond gave a firework.

• A device using gunpowder and other chemicals which, when lit, emits a combination of coloured flames, sparks, whistles or bangs for entertainment purposes.