Meaning & Definition of word "Conflagration"

Conflagration

/ˌkɒnfləˈɡreɪʃən/

noun:

  • 1. A large destructive fire that causes significant damage.
    • Example: The conflagration swept through the forest, leaving nothing but ashes in its wake.
  • 2. A fire that destroys a large amount of property or land.
    • Example: The city struggled to recover after the conflagration that engulfed several historic buildings.
  • 3. A situation marked by intense conflict or uproar.
    • Example: The political conflagration that ensued after the election led to widespread protests.
  • 4. A great and destructive fire.
    • Example: Firefighters battled the conflagration for days, trying to protect homes on the outskirts.
  • 5. An intense or overwhelming situation, especially one characterized by chaos.
    • Example: The conference turned into a conflagration of ideas, with participants passionately debating the issues.

Etymology

Latin conflagratio, from 'conflagrare', meaning 'to burn up'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

a conflagration of issues:

A situation where multiple problems arise at once.

to face a conflagration:

To confront a large, overwhelming challenge.

Related Words

incendiary:

Intended to cause fires; capable of causing fire.

arson:

The criminal act of deliberately setting fire to property.

Slang Meanings of conflagration

Meaning: Going up in flames.

Example Sentence: Their plans for the weekend went up in a conflagration when it started raining.

Meaning: Burnout.

Example Sentence: After the intense project, I felt like I was in a state of conflagration.