accelerant

noun

ac·​cel·​er·​ant ik-ˈse-lə-rənt How to pronounce accelerant (audio)
ak-
: a substance used to accelerate a process (such as the spreading of a fire)

Examples of accelerant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Our cybersecurity names were big winners after the market realized AI is an accelerant to their industry, not a replacement. Jeff Marks, CNBC, 15 May 2026 During Nicholls’ jury trial, prosecutors relied heavily on findings from one Colorado Bureau of Investigation scientist who found that chemical testing results were consistent with an accelerant being used in the deadly fire. Shelly Bradbury, Denver Post, 13 May 2026 Video recovered by authorities shows Santana setting the fire after spreading an accelerant, police sources say. Colin Mixson, New York Daily News, 13 May 2026 The Role of Social Media in Expanding Appeal Social media has been a critical accelerant. Fmg Studios, Footwear News, 10 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for accelerant

Word History

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of accelerant was in 1824

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Accelerant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accelerant. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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