Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Firebrand Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ฅ
Add to dictionary

firebrand

[หˆfaษชษ™rหŒbrรฆnd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

politics

A person who is passionate about a cause and is able to incite others to action; a troublemaker or agitator.

Synonyms

agitator, instigator, rabble-rouser.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
firebrand

Used to describe someone who is passionate and determined about a cause, often inciting change or action. It can have a positive or neutral connotation.

  • The young activist was a firebrand, always rallying people to fight for human rights.
  • He was seen as a firebrand in the political scene, constantly pushing for reforms.
agitator

Used for someone who actively tries to stir up others, often in a controversial or disruptive way. This word usually has a negative connotation.

  • The agitator was arrested for inciting violence during the protest.
  • Many saw him as an agitator, always trying to provoke the crowd.
instigator

Refers to a person who initiates or causes something to happen, often involving conflict or trouble. Generally has a negative connotation.

  • The instigator of the fight was quickly identified and expelled from the event.
  • She was known as an instigator, often sparking arguments within the team.
rabble-rouser

Describes someone who incites a crowd to become angry or violent, usually for their own purposes. This term typically has a strongly negative connotation.

  • The rabble-rouser spurred the crowd into a frenzy, leading to chaos.
  • Authorities tried to calm the situation before the rabble-rouser could stir up more trouble.

Examples of usage

  • He was known as a firebrand in the political arena.
  • The firebrand activist inspired a wave of protests.
  • The firebrand's speech ignited a fierce debate.
Context #2 | Noun

history

A burning stick or piece of wood; a piece of burning material.

Synonyms

blazer, flambeau, torch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
firebrand

Used to describe someone who is very passionate about a cause and tends to incite change or unrest. Often has a connotation of being disruptive or rebellious.

  • The young activist was known as a firebrand in the political community.
  • That firebrand journalist never hesitates to challenge the status quo.
torch

Commonly used to describe a handheld source of light, either literal or metaphorical. Can also mean someone who inspires others.

  • He passed the torch of leadership to his successor with great pride.
  • She used a torch to navigate the dark, ancient ruins.
flambeau

Literary term for a flaming torch, often used in historical or fantasy settings. Adds a poetic or old-fashioned touch.

  • The procession moved forward, each person holding a flambeau that illuminated the dark night.
  • In the old tales, the warriors marched with flambeaux to light their path.
blazer

Generally refers to a type of jacket, but in a different context, it can describe someone who leads the way, particularly in a challenging situation. Not as common in this sense.

  • He was a true blazer in the field of environmental science.
  • The new CEO is a blazer, always pushing for innovative solutions.

Examples of usage

  • The firebrand was used to light the bonfire.
  • He grabbed a firebrand from the fireplace to light his way.
Context #3 | Noun

literature

A character in a story or play who is known for their fiery personality or rebellious nature.

Synonyms

maverick, rebel, troublemaker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
firebrand

Used when describing someone who is very passionate and might stir up emotions or actions in others, often in a context of speeches, activism, or movements.

  • During the protest, the firebrand speakers motivated the crowd to demand their rights
rebel

Appropriate for someone who resists authority, control, or tradition. Often used in the context of politics, social issues, or personal behavior. It can have a negative connotation depending on the situation.

  • The young rebel challenged the old traditions of his community, seeking change and modernity
maverick

Suitable for describing someone who is unconventional and independent, often willing to take risks and go against established norms, especially in professional settings or industries.

  • In the tech industry, he is considered a maverick for his innovative approaches to problem-solving
troublemaker

Refers to someone who causes problems or disruptions, typically viewed negatively in any context where harmony and order are desired, like schools, workplaces, or communities.

  • The teacher had to deal with the troublemaker in the class who was always interrupting the lessons

Examples of usage

  • The protagonist of the novel was a firebrand who challenged the status quo.
  • The firebrand in the play stirred up conflict among the other characters.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The term appears in various literary works, often associating characters with intense passion or revolutionary ideas.
  • Authors like Mark Twain and John Steinbeck used topics involving firebrands to symbolize forces of change in society.
  • Shakespeare used fiery characters to juxtapose calm and rational figures, emphasizing the impact of passion in dramatic narratives.

Pop Culture

  • In modern media, firebrands are often depicted in films and novels as the archetype of the revolutionary leader or activist.
  • The term has been embraced in contemporary politics, describing figures who challenge the status quo and rally public sentiment.
  • Many famous speeches and protests are sparked by such individuals, illustrating how a single person can ignite a movement.

Psychology

  • Psychologists study how firebrand personalities can influence group dynamics, often energizing followers with their enthusiasm.
  • Research shows that charismatic individuals can significantly impact public opinion and motivate collective behavior.
  • The firebrand effect can lead to increased participation in social movements, highlighting the power of persuasive communication.

History

  • Throughout history, many leaders have been labeled as firebrands, leading revolutions or major societal changes, such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Susan B. Anthony.
  • In the American Revolution, firebrands like Samuel Adams stirred public sentiment for independence through passionate advocacy.
  • The concept is essential in understanding various historical movements, emphasizing how one individual's fervor can lead to substantial change.

Origin of 'firebrand'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'firebrand' originated from the Old English 'fyrbrand', meaning a burning piece of wood or a torch.
  • Figuratively, it began being used to describe someone who creates a lot of excitement or agitation, not just someone who literally carries fire.
  • The use of the term to describe passionate activists dates back to the 18th century, highlighting a shift from its literal meaning.

The word 'firebrand' originated in Old English as 'firbrand', combining 'fir' (meaning fire) and 'brand' (meaning a piece of burning wood). Over time, the term evolved to refer to a person who stirs up trouble or incites action. In literature and politics, 'firebrand' is often used to describe individuals with a passionate and rebellious nature.

See also: bonfire, fiery, fire, firearm, firearms, firebomb, firebox, firebug, firecrackers, fired, firefighter, fireman, fireplace, firepower, firestorm, firewall, firewoman, firework, fireworks, firing, misfire.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,915 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.