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The Collaborative International Dictionary
Congreve match

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.

  2. Short for

    Congreve match, an early friction match, containing sulphur, potassium chlorate, and antimony sulphide.