Wildfire

Origin

Wild + fire. In the Middle Ages, the term referred to Greek fire. from WP: The modern usage may have resulted from a misunderstanding of the phrase spread like wildfire.

Full definition of wildfire

Noun

1. A rapidly spreading fire, especially one occurring in a wildland area.
2. (historical) Greek fire, Byzantine fire.
3. A spreading disease of the skin, particularly erysipelas.
4. (figuratively) Something that acts quickly and uncontrollably.

Synonyms

• forest fire

Derived terms

• spread like wildfire