Greek fire
English
Noun
Greek fire (uncountable)
- (historical) A highly flammable substance of unknown composition first used by the Greeks of Constantinople in the 7th century C.E. to set fire to enemy ships, buildings etc.
- 1819, Sir Walter Scott, Ivanhoe:
- “There is yet spirit in him,” said Malvoisin apart to Mont–Fitchet, “were it well directed — but, like the Greek fire, it burns whatever approaches it.”
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Synonyms
- Grecian fire
Translations
flammable substance
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