sparkler
UK[ˈspɑːklə(r)]US[ˈspɑːrklər]
n
a handheld firework that emits a shower of bright sparks when lit.
n
a person or thing that sparkles, especially a gem or a vivacious person.
Morpheme Breakdown
sparkle
er
sparkle
to glitter
er
agent suffix
Etymology
the word 'sparkler' is a transparent english compound built from the native germanic root 'spark'. the old english 'spearca' referred to a fiery particle, a concept that evolved into the verb 'sparkle', describing the repeated, glittering emission of such particles. by adding the agent suffix '-er', the noun 'sparkler' was formed to denote an object that performs the action of sparkling. its primary modern application to a type of handheld firework perfectly captures this literal sense of a thing that produces a shower of glittering sparks.
Analysis
Structure: sparkle (to glitter) + er (agent suffix)
"sparkle" is of middle english origin, from the frequentative form of the verb 'spark', itself from old english 'spearca', meaning a small particle of fire. the suffix "-er" is from old english "-ere", an agent-noun suffix indicating a person or thing that performs an action.
Examples
the children waved their sparklers, drawing bright circles in the night air.
her diamond necklace was a real sparkler, catching the light with every movement.
he's such a sparkler at parties, always telling jokes and making everyone laugh.