firebrand

American  

[fahyuhr-brand] / ˈfaɪərˌbrænd /

noun

1. a piece of burning wood or other material.

2. a person who kindles strife or encourages unrest; an agitator; troublemaker.

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firebrand British  

/ ˈfaɪəˌbrænd /

noun

1. a piece of burning or glowing wood or other material

2. a person who causes unrest or is very energetic

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Etymology

Origin of firebrand

Middle English word dating back to 1175–1225; fire, brand

Example Sentences

He had an earlier television incarnation as Bill Brand in the 1970s ITV series of the same name about a fictional firebrand Labour MP.

From BBC

But Jacobson has taken heat for these signings from some of the more traditional acts on his roster as well as other executives and firebrands online.

From The Wall Street Journal

Winds launched burning firebrands into the hillside neighborhoods, destroying scores of homes.

From Los Angeles Times

According to the ATF special agent, a firebrand became lodged within dense chaparral and then smoldered and burned within the roots of the vegetation.

From Los Angeles Times

Republican politicians and conservative firebrands have made that goal explicit.

From MarketWatch