sparkplug
sparkplug Lexical Profile
sparkplug Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A device fitted into the cylinder head of an internal-combustion engine that ignites the compressed fuel-air mixture by means of an electric spark.
"The mechanic replaced every fouled sparkplug to restore the engine's smooth performance."
North American An energetic, enthusiastic person who initiates activity, inspires others, or serves as the driving force behind a group or project.
"She was the undeniable sparkplug of the championship basketball team, rallying her teammates whenever their energy flagged."
• verb
North American To act as the energetic driving force that initiates, inspires, or propels (an activity, campaign, or organization).
"A coalition of local teachers sparkplugged the fundraising drive to build a new community library."
Word Nuance & Usage
While the mechanical automotive component is most commonly written as the open compound "spark plug," the closed form "sparkplug" is frequently preferred for the figurative sense of an energetic person and for the verb.