1. a friction match that can be ignited by striking on any rough surface
Usage: archaic
2. a member of a radical faction of the Democratic Party in the 1830s and 1840s that opposed monopolies and special privileges
Usage: historical; US politics

Examples

• The old prospector struck a locofoco against the rock to light his pipe.
• Before safety matches, locofocos were popular because they could be lit anywhere.
• The Locofoco faction split from the regular Democrats over banking issues.
• Locofoco politicians advocated for the common man against wealthy interests.
• The term ‘locofoco’ came from the matches used to light candles at a political meeting.
• Many Locofocos later joined the Free Soil Party.