noun
- a wooden friction match having a large head, formerly used when a larger than normal flame was needed.
- a red flare light, used on a railroad as a warning signal to approaching trains.
- Horology. a spirally grooved, conical pulley and chain arrangement for counteracting the diminishing power of the uncoiling mainspring.
- fuse1(def 1).
noun
- (in early clocks and watches) a spirally grooved spindle, functioning as an equalizing force on the unwinding of the mainspring
- a friction match with a large head, capable of remaining alight in a wind
- an explosive fuse
also fuzee, type of light musket, 1660s, from French fusil (see fusilier).