: a usually paper cylinder containing an explosive and a fuse and set off to make a noise

Examples of firecracker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sparklers, smoke bombs, firecrackers and Roman candles were the firework varieties that caused the most injuries. Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 6 July 2026 Welcome to a Friday Nightcaps — the one where Olivia Dunne parties her tail off while Paul Skenes get lit up like a firecracker. Zach Dean Outkick, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 So hot those July 4th firecrackers might just light themselves. Gretta Monahan, Boston Herald, 2 July 2026 While the Fourth of July can be a ton of fun, loud fireworks and firecrackers can terrify pets — and concern their owners. Jen Reeder, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for firecracker

Word History

First Known Use

1823, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of firecracker was in 1823

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Firecracker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firecracker. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

firecracker

noun
: a paper tube containing an explosive and set off to make a noise

More from Merriam-Webster on firecracker

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!