firebrand
noun
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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.
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Examples of firebrand in a Sentence
Steven Lemongello, Orlando Sentinel, 23 Dec. 2024
The legal action could be the final battle for Gaetz in the years-long investigation into the firebrand Republican.
—Zach Schonfeld, The Hill, 23 Dec. 2024
The Quiz Controversial conservative firebrand Candace Owens was denied a visa to enter New Zealand for a speaking engagement, thanks to the country’s rule that visas cannot be given to a person who has been banned from another nation.
—Maggie McGrath, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024
The Florida congressman, known as a firebrand in the House, then resigned his seat.
—Ted Johnson, Deadline, 21 Nov. 2024
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“Firebrand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firebrand. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.
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firebrand
noun
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