1. A small but noticeable trace of some quality that might become stronger
2. A small fragment of a burning substance thrown out by burning material or by friction.

To emit or produce sparks.

(1918-) Scottish novelist. She is a Catholic convert, and her enigmatic satires include The Ballad of Peckham Rye 1960, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie 1961, The Only Problem 1984, and Symposium 1990.