firebrand

noun

fire·brand ˈfī(-ə)r-ˌbrand

Synonyms of firebrand next

: a piece of burning wood

: one that creates unrest or strife (as in aggressively promoting a cause) : agitator

Did you know?

The original firebrands were incendiary indeed; they were pieces of wood set burning at the fire, perhaps for use as a light or a weapon. English speakers started brandishing those literal firebrands as long ago as the 13th century. (Robinson Crusoe held one high as he rushed into a cave on his deserted island and saw by the light of the firebrand . . . lying on the ground a monstrous, frightful old he-goat.) But the burning embers of the wooden firebrand quickly sparked figurative uses for the term, too. By the early 14th century, firebrand was also being used for one doomed to burn in hell, and by 1382, English writers were using it for anyone who kindled mischief or inflamed passions.

Examples of firebrand in a Sentence

a firebrand who urged crowds to riot during the blackouts

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Vincent, with her beautifully aged face, is quietly mesmerizing; Ludivine Sagnier, as her hostile daughter, an absolute firebrand. —

Damon Wise, Deadline, 31 Dec. 2024 Crockett, a Democratic firebrand, also argued that Democrats should consider new approaches to leadership, noting House Republicans have term limits with their leadership positions. —

Jack Birle, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 29 Dec. 2024 The firebrand right-wing congresswoman has been part of a number of high-profile controversies during her first four years in Congress. —

The Hill, 11 Dec. 2024 The Cabinet taking shape is an unorthodox mix, that includes billionaires, television personalities, outsider political figures and ultra MAGA firebrands. —

David Jackson, USA TODAY, 21 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for firebrand