noun
Archaic term for a match, specifically a splint or stick used to transfer fire. Replaced by modern マッチ.
江戸時代には、早付け木は火を起こすための貴重な道具だった。
In the Edo period, hayatsukegi was a valuable tool for starting fires.
Compound of 早 (haya, 'quick') + 付け木 (tsukegi, 'fire-lighting splint'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term likely refers to a match that ignites quickly.