Firebrand

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈfaɪə.bɹænd/
• US IPA: /ˈfaɪɚ.bɹænd/

Origin

From Middle English fyrebrand, fürbrond, equivalent to fire + brand. Cognate with German Feuerbrand ("firebrand").

Full definition of firebrand

Noun

1. An argumentative troublemaker or revolutionary; one who agitates against the current situation.The member of the college's Communist League was a firebrand who would launch a sit-in or protest march at a moment's notice.
2. A torch or other burning stick with a flame at one end.The crowd cheered as a firebrand was tossed on the huge pile of wood to start the traditional homecoming bonfire.