noun
firebrand
Firebrand (noun) means a burning stick used as a torch.
noun
1
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
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."
— Jesse Jackson, In the Ferguson era, Malcolm X’s courage in fighting racism inspires more than ever (2015)
"The member of the college's Communist League was a firebrand who would launch a sit-in or protest march at a moment's notice."
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like firebrand.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Etymology
Came from Middle English fyr-brand, furbrond, equivalent to fire plus brand, and is cognate with German Feuerbrand ("firebrand").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of firebrand?
"firebrand" (noun) means a burning stick used as a torch.
What is another word for firebrand?
Other words for "firebrand" include inciter, instigant, brand, instigator, provoker.
What is the opposite of firebrand?
The opposite of "firebrand" is milksop.
What are the different meanings of firebrand?
"firebrand" has 2 main meanings: 1. A burning stick used as a torch; 2. Someone who stirs up trouble or argument, often against the way things are.
