Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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.