Flammable
'flæməbəl
Definitions
Easily set on fire; capable of burning.
'flæməbəl
Capable of being easily set on fire.
Keep flammable materials away from open flames.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're having a campfire. Flammable things are like dry leaves and twigs—they catch fire quickly. Non-flammable things, like rocks, don't burn.
👶 For kids: Something that can catch fire easily, like paper or wood.
More Examples
The sign warned of flammable liquids in the area.
This fabric is highly flammable and should be treated with care.
How It's Used
"Flammable materials should be stored away from heat sources."
"Gasoline is a flammable liquid."
Idioms & expressions
Inflammable
Easily set on fire.
"The warning sign read 'Inflammable - Keep Away From Heat'."
From Latin *flamma* (flame) + -able (capable of). The word entered English in the 17th century.
Historically, 'flammable' and 'inflammable' were used somewhat interchangeably, though the latter is now often avoided to prevent confusion.
Memory tip
Think of a flame! If something is flammable, it will burn easily.
Word Origin
"flamma (flame)"