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; see origin at fire, brand

Explanation

When someone is known for being wildly devoted to a cause or idea, they're called a firebrand. A firebrand enjoys pushing buttons and stirring up passions. Firebrand isn't such a tough word to remember if you think of that person's "brand" being "fiery." Someone who enjoys heating up the debate around a subject or lighting a fire under other people is a firebrand. "Fire" is their "brand." Firebrands come in all shapes and sizes: conservative, liberal, militant, creative. Anyone who takes a strong, provocative stance and challenges people with heated rhetoric might be labeled a firebrand. All it takes is guts and a willingness to stir things up.