Firebrand: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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