'inflammatory' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'inflammare,' where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'flammare' meant 'to set on fire.'

'inflammare' transformed into the Old French word 'enflammer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'inflammatory' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to set on fire,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings related to causing inflammation or arousing strong emotions.