incendiary
|in-cen-di-ar-y|
🇺🇸
/ɪnˈsɛndiˌɛri/
🇬🇧
/ɪnˈsɛndiəri/
fire-starting
Etymology
'incendiary' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'incendiarius,' where 'incendium' meant 'fire.'
'incendiarius' transformed into the Old French word 'incendiaire,' and eventually became the modern English word 'incendiary.'
Initially, it meant 'pertaining to fire,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'causing fires' and 'stirring up conflict.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who starts fires, especially in a military context.
The incendiary was captured before he could do any more damage.
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Adjective 1
designed to cause fires.
The incendiary device was found in the abandoned building.
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Adjective 2
tending to stir up conflict.
His incendiary remarks only fueled the argument.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41