flame retardant

American  

noun

1. a compound used in cloth and plastic material to raise the ignition point of the material, thus making it resistant to fire.

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Etymology

Origin of flame retardant

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Among the synthetic products, 19 claimed to be flame retardant, three were labeled water resistant, nine advertised heat resistance, and three promoted "green" claims such as "no PVC" or "non-toxic."

From Science Daily • Feb. 19, 2026

Investigators have found that a protective netting used around the complex, which had been undergoing extensive renovations, failed to meet flame retardant standards.

From BBC • Dec. 3, 2025

Because of an unexpectedly cool morning, the flame retardant applied to the artificial turf in the consumption lounge tent hadn’t yet dried.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 18, 2024

In experiments, when the modified lignin was heated, it charred -- but did not burn up -- a sign that it could act as a flame retardant.

From Science Daily • Oct. 17, 2023

My brother, the revolutionary weirdo, has covered himself in flame retardant, to use his terminology.

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson