Congreve \Con"greve\, n. [After Sir William Congreve, the inventor.]

1. Short for

Cogreve rocket, a powerful form of rocket formerly used in war, either in the field or for bombardment. In the former case it was armed with shell, shrapnel, or other missiles; in the latter, with an inextinguishable explosive material, inclosed in a metallic case. It was guided by a long wooden stick.

2. Short for

Congreve match, an early friction match, containing sulphur, potassium chlorate, and antimony sulphide.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)