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.
Ultimately, staying grounded, focusing on areas of true differentiation, integrating AI as a strategic accelerant, and honoring long-term commitments like Fisher House are how Beazer plans to emerge stronger. Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025 The front door of the East Melbourne Synagogue was set alight with ban accelerant on July 11, and a suspect has been charged. Rod McGuirk, Sun Sentinel, 15 July 2025 If China marks the culmination of this unending fire of expansion, America set the spark, with oil as its most important accelerant. Bill McKibben, New Yorker, 12 July 2025 The victim’s home security video system caught Gabrielli, first seen dousing the year-old car with an accelerant, fleeing the scene with his pants ablaze. Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 3 June 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Accelerant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/accelerant. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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