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.
Both Melody and Scott allowed investigators to test their hands for accelerants. Susan Mallie, CBS News, 26 Apr. 2025 In this sense, financial stress often functions less as a cause than an accelerant. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025 That order, which called public employees back into the office four days a week, has provided what the union says is an organizing accelerant at a critical time. Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 14 Apr. 2025 Carlson was sentenced by Butte County Superior Judge Corie J. Caraway, who imposed the 11-year maximum — six years for felony arson and five more for use of an accelerant. Jake Goodrick, Sacramento Bee, 9 Mar. 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 29 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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