firebrand
5 synonyms and 1 antonym for firebrand, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A burning stick used as a torch.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A burning stick used as a torch.
“The crowd cheered as a firebrand was tossed onto the huge pile of wood to start the traditional homecoming bonfire.”
2. noun
Someone who stirs up trouble or argument, often against the way things are.
“Both Malcolm and King were firebrands. And both were disciplined organisers of people. Malcolm was able to channel the anger of a crowd into action, but then to ensure they did not descend into violence.”
Opposites
Etymology
Came from Middle English fyr-brand, furbrond, equivalent to fire plus brand, and is cognate with German Feuerbrand ("firebrand").
Full origin of firebrand →