firebrand Definition
- 1a person who is passionate about a particular cause, typically inciting change and taking radical action
- 2a piece of burning wood
Using firebrand: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "firebrand" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She was a firebrand for women's rights.
Example
The politician was known as a firebrand for his radical views.
Example
He threw a firebrand into the crowd, causing chaos and panic.
Example
The firebrand burned brightly in the night.
firebrand Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for firebrand
- agitator
- instigator
- provocateur
- rebel
- rabble-rouser
Antonyms for firebrand
Phrases with firebrand
Example
The journalist held the corrupt politician's feet to the firebrand during the interview.
play with firebrands
to engage in risky or dangerous behavior
Example
You're playing with firebrands if you continue to drive recklessly.
Example
The police were able to quench the firebrand before it turned into a full-blown riot.
Origins of firebrand
from Old English 'fȳrbrǣnde', meaning 'a piece of burning wood'
Summary: firebrand in Brief
A 'firebrand' [ˈfaɪə(r)brænd] is a passionate person who incites change and takes radical action. It can also refer to a piece of burning wood. Examples include 'She was a firebrand for women's rights.' and 'He threw a firebrand into the crowd, causing chaos and panic.' Phrases like 'hold a firebrand to' and 'play with firebrands' denote criticism and risky behavior, respectively.