Pyromaniacal: meaning, definitions and examples

Repeated due to an initial error. Use the context and examples provided above for 'pyromaniacal'.

• Refer to the first entry for context and examples

Refers to someone who commits arson, the deliberate and illegal act of setting fires to property. This term has a criminal connotation.

• The police have arrested an arsonistic individual who is believed to be behind the recent spate of building fires

Describes someone who has a strong fascination or obsession with fire. This term is used more generally and is not necessarily linked to criminal behavior.

• As a child, he was fire-obsessed, always wanting to play with matches and watch things burn

Often used to describe something or someone that causes fires, whether intentionally or unintentionally. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe inflammatory behavior or speech that can incite strong reactions.

• The incendiary device was found near the scene of the fire
• His incendiary comments sparked a heated debate

This word is best used when describing someone who has an obsessive urge to set things on fire, often considered a psychological condition.

• The detective suspected the fire was caused by a pyromaniacal individual.
• Her pyromaniacal tendencies required professional help.

Use this term when talking about the act of starting fires, often in a literal sense. It doesn't inherently carry a psychological implication like 'pyromaniacal'.

• The scout leader taught the children safe fire-starting techniques.
• Fire-starting without proper supervision can be extremely dangerous.

This is an informal and often slang term, typically used to describe someone who enjoys fire or is obsessed with fire. It can have a negative connotation, especially when referring to dangerous behavior.

• He's a bit of a pyro, always fascinated by flames and fireworks.
• They called him a pyro after he was caught playing with matches.

This word is suitable for describing something that can catch on fire easily or has a tendency to combust. It can also describe a volatile situation or person.

• The factory was filled with combustive materials, posing a significant fire hazard.
• Their argument was combustive and could have easily escalated into a bigger conflict.