What is "spark arrester"

Spark \Spark\, n. [OE. sparke, AS. spearca; akin to D. spark, sperk; cf. Icel. spraka to crackle, Lith. sprag["e]ti, Gr. ? a bursting with a noise, Skr. sph?rj to crackle, to thunder. Cf. Speak.]

1. A small particle of fire or ignited substance which is emitted by a body in combustion.

   Man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward.
   --Job v. 7.

2. A small, shining body, or transient light; a sparkle.

3. That which, like a spark, may be kindled into a flame, or into action; a feeble germ; an elementary principle. ``If any spark of life be yet remaining.''
   --Shak. ``Small intellectual spark.''
   --Macaulay. ``Vital spark of heavenly flame.''
   --Pope.

   We have here and there a little clear light, some sparks of bright knowledge.
   --Locke.

   Bright gem instinct with music, vocal spark.
   --Wordsworth.

   Spark arrester, a contrivance to prevent the escape of sparks while it allows the passage of gas, -- chiefly used in the smokestack of a wood-burning locomotive. Called also spark consumer. [U.S.]

1. n. electrical device to reduce sparking when electrical contacts are opened or closed

2. a wire net to stop sparks from an open fireplace or smokestack [syn: sparker]