firebrand

[ˈfaɪə(r)brænd]

firebrand Definition

• 1. a person who is passionate about a particular cause, typically inciting change and taking radical action
• 2. a 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

• peacemaker
• moderate

Phrases with firebrand

• hold a firebrand to

  to criticize or rebuke someone severely

  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.

• quench a firebrand

  to put an end to a dangerous or volatile situation

  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'

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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.