Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Catherine wheel \Cath"er*ine wheel`\ [So called from St.
   Catherine of Alexandria, who is represented with a wheel, in
   allusion to her martyrdom.]
   1. (Geoth.Arth.) Same as {Rose window} and {Wheel window}.
      Called also {Catherine-wheel window}.

   2. (Pyrotechny) A revolving piece of fireworks resembling in
      form the window of the same name. [Written also {Catharine
      wheel}.]