spark arrester

noun

1

: a device for preventing the escape of sparks from a smokestack

especially : a framework of wire in the smokebox of a steam locomotive to arrest the escape of cinders

2

: a device to minimize or prevent electric sparking at a place where a circuit is made and broken

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!