Pronunciation: [ˈɪskɹə] (IPA) 
The word "iskra" is a Slavic term that means "spark". It is pronounced as ˈiskrə and spelled using the Cyrillic alphabet. In IPA phonetic transcription, the "i" sound is represented as /ɪ/, the "s" sound as /s/, the "k" sound as /k/, the "r" sound as /r/, and the "a" sound as /ə/. The word is commonly used in the context of fire and electricity, where a small spark can ignite a much greater flame.
Iskra is a noun that primarily refers to a small spark or flash of fire. Derived from the Slavic languages, especially popular in Russian and Polish, iskra carries a rich cultural and poetic symbolism. The word represents the sudden and temporary emission of glowing particles or flames, much like the ignition of a firework or the flicker of a candle. Moreover, iskra holds metaphorical implications, often associated with the ignition or spark of an idea, a movement, or a revolution.
In a literal sense, iskra encapsulates the visual spectacle of a spark, conveying a sense of wonder, energy, and transient brightness. It illustrates the ephemeral nature of fire as it ignites and fades away quickly, leaving behind a trail of residual warmth. Furthermore, iskra can be seen as a powerful symbol of hope and inspiration, representing the potential for significant change to be initiated by a single small event or idea.
In socio-political contexts, the term is regarded as highly influential, as it represents the Marxist newspaper "Iskra" published in Russia during the early 20th century. The publication, founded by prominent revolutionaries Vladimir Lenin and Julius Martov, played a crucial role in disseminating Marxist ideology and organizing the Russian Social Democratic Labor Party, which became a driving force behind the Russian Revolution of 1917.
Overall, iskra embodies the essence of a spark: its beauty, transience, and ability to ignite larger flames, making it a multifaceted and evocative term laden with cultural and historical significance.
The word "iskra" has Slavic origins and is commonly used in several Slavic languages such as Polish, Czech, Slovak, and Russian. Its etymology can be traced back to Old Church Slavonic language, where the word "iskra" originally meant "spark" or "sparks". This was derived from the Proto-Slavic word "iska", which also meant "spark". The term has been used metaphorically to convey the idea of something small and fiery, symbolizing inspiration, passion, or revolution. In various Slavic cultures, the word "iskra" has also been used as a given name or as part of organizational names, reflecting its significance and symbolism.
