nonflammable

UK: /nɒnˈflæməb(ə)l/ | US: /nɑːnˈflæməb(ə)l/

Definition

  1. adj. not easily set on fire; resistant to burning

Structure
non <not>flamm <fire>able <capable of>
Etymology

The word "nonflammable" combines three morphemes:

  1. "Non-" (from Latin non meaning "not") negates the following term.
  2. "Flamm-" (from Latin flamma meaning "fire") forms the core concept of combustion.
  3. "-able" (from Latin -abilis meaning "capable of") indicates susceptibility or resistance.
    Originally used in technical contexts (e.g., safety labels), the word logically opposes "flammable" by asserting fire resistance through its prefix.
Examples

  1. The laboratory requires nonflammable materials for all storage containers.

  2. This fabric is treated to be nonflammable, meeting strict safety standards.

  3. Unlike gasoline, water is completely nonflammable.

  4. Workers wore nonflammable suits to handle the chemicals.

  5. The building code mandates nonflammable insulation for high-rise constructions.