fire-starter

[/ˈfaɪər ˈstɑːrtər/]
nounpl: fire-starters
acendedor de fogo
1. An object or substance used to ignite a fire, such as matches, lighters, or kindling material
We brought fire-starters and wood for the camping trip.
Trouxemos acendedores de fogo e lenha para a viagem de acampamento.
2. A person who deliberately starts fires, especially someone with a compulsion to do so (arsonist)
The fire-starter was arrested for setting multiple buildings ablaze.
O incendiário foi preso por atear fogo em vários edifícios.
3. Something that initiates or triggers a process or movement
This policy was the fire-starter for the entire reform movement.
Esta política foi o catalisador para todo o movimento de reforma.
In Brazil, 'acendedor de fogo' is commonly used in camping and outdoor contexts. In urban settings, 'isqueiro' (lighter) is more frequently used for portable fire-starting devices. The term also carries connotations in both cultures regarding arsonists or troublemakers who 'start fires' metaphorically by causing conflict or initiating significant changes.
NYC Slang
lighter / matchstick / torch (in the arsonist sense)
Synonyms / Sinônimos
igniterlighterkindlingtinderarsonistincendiary
Antonyms / Antônimos
extinguisherdampener

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
acendedor de fogo
Standard term for fire-starting materials
Rio de Janeiro
acendedor / isqueiro
Common usage for lighter or fire-starting device
São Paulo
acendedor de fogo / palito de fósforo
May refer to matches or lighter depending on context
Portugal
acendedor de fogo / isqueiro
Similar usage to Brazilian Portuguese; isqueiro more common for lighter

Related Words

combustionignitionkindlingflammableblazetinder

Related Idioms & Phrases

to be a fire-starter
fire-starter mentality
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