Definition

Noun: A safety match is a type of match designed to ignite only when it is struck against a specific, specially prepared surface, which is usually found on the side of its box or container. This design feature makes it safer than matches that can be struck on any rough surface, as it reduces the risk of accidental ignition.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • Always strike the safety match on the red strip on the side of the box.
  • For the camping trip, we packed a box of safety matches to light the stove.
  • The invention of the safety match greatly reduced the number of accidental fires.

Advanced Usage

• As a compound noun modifier: The term can function as a modifier in noun phrases to specify the type of match or related object.
  • He bought a safety match container. (This describes a container designed for safety matches.)
  • The safety match industry flourished in the 19th century.

Variants and Related Words

• Match (n): A short, slender piece of wood or cardboard tipped with a chemical substance that ignites when subjected to friction.
• Strike-anywhere match (n): A type of match that can be ignited by striking it against any rough surface, contrasting with a safety match.

Synonyms

• Friction match (This is a more general term that includes safety matches and strike-anywhere matches.)

Notes on Meaning

The term safety match specifically denotes the safety feature—the requirement for a special striking surface. It does not refer to the match's composition (e.g., paper or wood) as a defining characteristic, though common examples are paper matches. The key meaning is the controlled ignition mechanism.

Noun

1. a paper match that strikes only on a specially prepared surface