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Inflammable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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inflammable

[ɪnˈflæməbl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

flammable material

Easily set on fire; combustible. Inflammable is often mistakenly thought to mean non-flammable or not combustible, due to the prefix in-. However, it actually means the opposite.

Synonyms

combustible, flammable, ignitable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inflammable

Use in technical or safety instructions to indicate that something can easily catch fire and burn.

  • Keep away from inflammable materials
  • Inflammable liquids should be stored properly
combustible

Use to describe materials that can burn when exposed to a flame or heat, often used in safety warnings or technical contexts.

  • Store combustible substances in a cool, dry place
  • The building materials are combustible
flammable

Commonly used in everyday language to indicate that something can easily catch fire. Often seen on warning labels and signs.

  • Flammable liquids are prohibited
  • This spray is highly flammable
ignitable

Use in scientific or technical contexts to describe substances that can catch fire when exposed to a spark or flame.

  • Handle ignitable vapors with care
  • Keep ignitable materials away from open flames

Examples of usage

  • Inflammable materials should be stored in a safe place.
  • Be careful with inflammable liquids around open flames.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Safety

  • Due to misunderstandings about its meaning, 'inflammable' has led to safety issues in labels and warnings.
  • To avoid confusion, 'flammable' is often used instead in safety communications, making it clearer that something can catch fire.
  • Many household items, such as certain aerosols, are considered inflammable and can pose fire hazards if not stored properly.

Pop Culture

  • In many action films, fiery explosions are often referred to as involving inflammable materials, heightening tension and excitement.
  • The phrase 'inflammable' is often misused in songs and stories, leading audiences to misinterpret its significance.
  • Comedic misunderstandings about the word frequently appear in cartoons, where characters mistakenly believe it means 'not able to catch fire'.

Education

  • In school science experiments, students learn about the properties of materials, with emphasis on understanding which are inflammable.
  • Safety classes often include discussions about storing inflammable substances safely to prevent accidents.
  • Science textbooks discuss the chemistry of combustion, explaining which elements are typically classified as inflammable.

Psychology

  • The misunderstanding of 'inflammable' may lead to increased anxiety around fire hazards due to its misleading double meaning.
  • Research suggests that clear labeling of hazards, using simple language like 'flammable', can help reduce fear and improve safety behavior.
  • The confusion around similar-sounding words has been studied to understand how cognitive bias can affect safety perceptions.

Origin of 'inflammable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'inflammare', meaning 'to set on fire'.
  • It uses the prefix 'in-' which traditionally means 'not', but in this case, it emphasizes 'into a flame'.
  • Historically, the prefix 'in-' was often used in words about burning or heat, leading to confusion.

The word 'inflammable' originates from the Latin word 'inflammare', which means 'to set on fire'. The prefix 'in-' in English usually indicates a negative, but in this case, it is an intensifier. This has led to confusion over the meaning of 'inflammable', as many people mistakenly believe it means non-flammable. The word has been in use since the 16th century.

See also: enflame, flambeau, flamboyance, flamboyant, flamelet, flamer, flames, flamethrower, flaming, flammable, inflame, inflaming, inflammation.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,970, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.