The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

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.
      [Webster 1913 Suppl.]

   2. Short for

   Congreve match, an early friction match, containing
      sulphur, potassium chlorate, and antimony sulphide.
      [Webster 1913 Suppl.]