noun
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a box used formerly for holding tinder, esp one fitted with a flint and steel
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a person or thing that is particularly touchy or explosive
Etymology
Origin of tinderbox
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
On Friday, Burnham said Britain was a "tinderbox" and outlined plans to expand support for fire services and ensure they are properly resourced.
From BBC ● Aug. 20, 2026
Unfortunately, that created what Pill described as a tinderbox, ignited by the energy crisis after Russia invaded Ukraine.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 16, 2026
The implications of that physical law were demonstrated in Europe: heat waves turned the landscape into a tinderbox.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 30, 2026
Extreme heat has parched vegetation that grew vigorously during wet weather earlier in the year, creating tinderbox conditions.
From Barron's ● Jul. 29, 2026
“Take it, but leave yours. The same for you, Witkins. Leave your old tinderbox if you’re taking his.”
From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
