A match is a consumable tool for producing fire under controlled circumstances on demand. Matches are readily available, being sold in tobacconists and other shops. Matches are rarely sold singly; they are sold in multiples, packaged in either match boxes or in matchbooks. A match is typically a wooden stick (usually sold in match boxes) or stiff paper stick (usually sold in matchbooks) coated at one end (the match head) with a material often containing the element phosphorus, that will ignite from the heat of friction if rubbed ("struck") against a suitable surface. (wikipedia)