Flammable: meaning, definitions and examples

Suitable when describing materials that can easily catch fire.

• The sign warned that the area contained flammable gases.
• Always store flammable liquids in a cool, dry place.

Often referring to materials that can burn but might require higher temperatures or specific conditions to ignite.

• Wood is a combustible material that requires a spark to ignite.
• Combustible items must be kept away from heat sources.

Identical in meaning to flammable, used to indicate something that can easily catch fire. Sometimes confusing due to the prefix 'in-'.

• Inflammable curtains near the fireplace are a safety hazard.
• Keep inflammable materials away from open flames.

Used to describe something that can be set on fire, though it may require more effort than merely being flammable.

• Certain chemicals are highly ignitable under the right conditions.
• Store ignitable materials in safe, controlled areas.

Used to describe substances that can catch fire easily.

• Keep flammable materials away from open flames
• The storage area for flammable liquids must be well-ventilated

Used to describe something or someone likely to change unpredictably, especially for worse; can refer to people, situations, or substances.

• The political situation was highly volatile, with protests breaking out across the country
• The stock market has become very volatile in recent months

Used to describe someone who gets excited or emotionally reactive easily.

• The excitable puppy barked at every little noise
• He is an excitable person who can get very enthusiastic about small things

Used to describe someone with unpredictable moods, who can be easily upset or change their mood quickly.

• She is talented but very temperamental, which makes her difficult to work with
• The temperamental artist refused to speak with anyone