combustible
UK: kəmˈbʌstəbl | US: kəmˈbʌstəbl
adj. capable of catching fire and burning easily
n. a substance that can be burned to produce energy
The word traces back to Latin comburere, which emphasized complete destruction by fire (com- intensifying burere). Over time, combustible evolved in English (late 16th century) to describe materials prone to burning, reflecting its Latin roots in a more technical context. The suffix -ible systematically denotes adaptability, aligning with scientific classifications of reactive substances.
Gasoline is highly combustible and must be stored away from open flames.
The warehouse contained piles of combustible materials like paper and wood.
Engineers tested the building’s insulation for combustible properties.
Coal is a common combustible used in power plants.
Safety labels warn against placing combustible items near heaters.