Definition

1. Noun:
   • Friction firecracker: A type of small firecracker made from a phosphorus-based compound that ignites and produces a series of small pops and blue sparks when rubbed against a rough surface.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Trẻ con thường chơi pháo xiết vào dịp Tết. (Children often play with friction firecrackers during Tet.)
  • Anh ấy mua một gói pháo xiết ở cửa hàng tạp hóa. (He bought a pack of friction firecrackers at the grocery store.)
  • Tiếng nổ lách tách của pháo xiết nghe rất vui tai. (The crackling sound of friction firecrackers is very pleasant to hear.)

Advanced Usage

• Cultural Context: "Pháo xiết" is a traditional toy, especially popular among children during the Lunar New Year (Tet) in Vietnam. It is considered safer than other types of firecrackers as it does not use a fuse or open flame to ignite.
  • Pháo xiết là một phần ký ức tuổi thơ của nhiều người Việt. (Friction firecrackers are a part of childhood memories for many Vietnamese people.)

Variants and Related Words

• Pháo (n): A general term for firecrackers or fireworks.
  • pháo hoa (fireworks)
  • pháo bông (sparkler)
• Pháo sáng (n): Flare or signal flare.
• Chất lân (n): Phosphorus, the chemical compound typically used in "pháo xiết".

Synonyms

• Pétard à frottement (French loan translation): Friction firecracker.
• Snap pop (in some contexts): A descriptive term for its sound and action.

Notes on Different Meanings

• The word "pháo" alone has broader meanings (cannon, firecracker, firework). "Pháo xiết" specifically refers to the friction-activated type.
• It is distinct from "pháo nổ" (exploding firecracker) or "pháo hoa" (fireworks display).

Related Idioms or Phrases

• While there are no direct idioms with "pháo xiết", it is associated with festive atmospheres and childhood play.
  • vui như Tết (as happy as Tet) – a common idiom where toys like "pháo xiết" are often used.

1. Friction fire-craker