flammable

[flam-uh-buhl]

adjective

1. easily set on fire; combustible; inflammable.

flammable

/ ˈflæməbəl /

adjective

1. liable to catch fire; readily combustible; inflammable

Usage

Flammable and inflammable are interchangeable when used of the properties of materials. Flammable is, however, often preferred for warning labels as there is less likelihood of misunderstanding ( inflammable being sometimes taken to mean not flammable ). Inflammable is preferred in figurative contexts: this could prove to be an inflammable situation

Confusables Note

See inflammable.

Other Word Forms

• flammability noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of flammable¹

First recorded in 1805–15; from Latin flammā(re) “to set on fire” + -ble

Example Sentences

Voracious goats are a more eco-friendly and efficient alternative to removing flammable weeds from steep hillsides, especially for habitat restoration.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In that incident, the board’s investigation found multiple safety failures, including a severely eroded safety valve that allowed flammable gases to dangerously seep into unwanted areas.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The organic waste separates into a flammable gas — made of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane and hydrogen — and a small amount of solid waste.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Some argue for better clearing of flammable material in forests and near towns, or investing in new technology that can help detect wildfires faster.

Read more on BBC

The BurnBot is a remote-controlled vehicular system that removes flammable brush alongside roads with unprecedented precision.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• combustible 
• incendiary