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Holmes light

noun

  1. a canister, attached to a life buoy or float, containing calcium carbonate and calcium phosphide, which ignite spontaneously on contact with the water, emitting conspicuous fire and smoke.

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Word History and Origins

Origin of Holmes light1

Probably from the surname Holmes

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Example Sentences

During practice with “blank” torpedoes a “Holmes light” is attached.

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HolmesHolmes, Oliver Wendell, Jr.

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