tinderbox
IPA: tˈɪndɝbɑks
noun
- (historical) A small container containing flint, steel, and tinder (dry, finely-divided fibrous matter), once used to help kindle a fire.
- (by extension) A place that is so dry and hot that there is danger of fire.
- (figurative) A potentially dangerous situation.
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Examples of "tinderbox" in Sentences
- The old barn was a tinderbox waiting to ignite in the dry summer heat
- The reckless campfire near the tinderbox of dead leaves caused a dangerous situation
- The political climate was like a tinderbox, ready to explode with the smallest spark of controversy
- The tense standoff between the rival gangs was a tinderbox of violence waiting to erupt
- The crowded city streets on a hot day felt like a tinderbox of frustration and anger
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