Meaning & Definition of word "Arson"

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    Arson

    /ˈɑːr.sən/

    noun:

    • 1. the criminal act of deliberately setting fire to property.
      • Example: The investigation revealed that the building was a victim of arson.
    • 2. a charge or accusation of committing the crime of arson.
      • Example: He was arrested and faced charges of arson after the fire consumed several businesses.
    • 3. the act of causing a fire with the intent to cause damage or harm.
      • Example: The authorities are cracking down on arson to protect the community from dangerous fires.

    Etymology

    From Middle English 'arsoun', from Old French 'arson', from Latin 'ardere' meaning 'to burn'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    commit arson:

    To intentionally set fire to something, usually for illegal purposes.

    charge with arson:

    To accuse or prosecute someone for the crime of arson.

    arson investigation:

    An inquiry into the circumstances and causes surrounding a suspected act of arson.

    Related Words

    incendiary:

    Causing fires; tending to stir up conflict or rebellion.

    pyromaniac:

    A person with an uncontrollable impulse to set fires.

    arsonist:

    A person who commits arson.

    Slang Meanings of arson

    Meaning: Burn the place down

    Example Sentence: When the party got out of control, he joked about burning the place down.

    Meaning: Firestarter

    Example Sentence: He's such a firestarter; you just can't trust him with matches.