firebrand
|fire-brand|
🇺🇸
/ˈfaɪər.brænd/
🇬🇧
/ˈfaɪə.brænd/
burning stick → incendiary person
Etymology
'firebrand' originates from Old English elements, specifically 'fyr' (fire) and 'brand' (a burning piece of wood), where 'brand' meant 'a burning stick or torch'.
'firebrand' developed in Middle English as a compound of 'fire' + 'brand' and originally referred to a burning piece of wood; the metaphorical sense 'an incendiary or agitational person' arose later.
Initially, it meant 'a burning piece of wood', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an inflammatory or agitational person' (metaphorical use).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a piece of burning wood; a torch or blazing stick.
He threw a firebrand into the pile of dry leaves.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a person who stirs up trouble or strong emotions — an agitator or incendiary (often used of a political or social activist).
She became known as a political firebrand who demanded radical reform.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/30 13:44