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.
Joyojit Pal, a professor at the University of Michigan who studies technology and society, says social media has become "a tinderbox waiting to explode with the next thing", its speed and reach driven by emotion.
From BBC ● Jul. 23, 2026
“The tinderbox looks increasingly close to igniting in full force.”
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 19, 2026
The authorities suspect the wildfire began when a power line broke as Spain sweltered in extreme heat, exceeding 40C in recent weeks, creating tinderbox conditions.
From Barron's ● Jul. 11, 2026
The authorities suspect the wildfire began when a power line broke as Spain sweltered in extreme heat, creating tinderbox conditions.
From Barron's ● Jul. 11, 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
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
