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firebrand

/ˌfaɪərˈbrænd/
IPA guide

Other forms: firebrands

When someone is known for being wildly devoted to a cause or idea, they're called a firebrand. A firebrand enjoys pushing buttons and stirring up passions.

Firebrand isn't such a tough word to remember if you think of that person's "brand" being "fiery." Someone who enjoys heating up the debate around a subject or lighting a fire under other people is a firebrand. "Fire" is their "brand." Firebrands come in all shapes and sizes: conservative, liberal, militant, creative. Anyone who takes a strong, provocative stance and challenges people with heated rhetoric might be labeled a firebrand. All it takes is guts and a willingness to stir things up.

Definitions of firebrand
  1. noun
    a piece of wood that has been burned or is burning
    synonyms: brand
    see moresee less
    type of:
    firewood
    wood used for fuel
  2. noun
    someone who deliberately foments trouble
    see moresee less
    types:
    ringleader
    a person who leads (especially in illicit activities)
    type of:
    bad hat, mischief-maker, trouble maker, troublemaker, troubler
    someone who deliberately stirs up trouble
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DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘firebrand'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
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