Definition

Something that can easily catch fire and burn quickly.

Example

The sign warned that the materials were inflammable and should be handled with care.

Conversation

Did you know that some materials are actually inflammable despite what people think?

Yeah, I always thought it meant the opposite!

It's crazy, right? You have to be careful with inflammable items around fire.

Definitely! I'll make sure to read the labels more closely.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inflammable is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "flammare" (meaning to flame or set on fire). The word describes something that is capable of being set on fire, despite the prefix suggesting the opposite.

Memory Tip

Think of 'flammare' meaning to flame, and remember that 'inflammable' refers to something that can easily catch fire.

Visually Confused Words