flame retardant

American  

noun

1. a compound used in cloth and plastic material to raise the ignition point of the material, thus making it resistant to fire.

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Etymology

Origin of flame retardant

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Among the synthetic products, 19 claimed to be flame retardant, three were labeled water resistant, nine advertised heat resistance, and three promoted "green" claims such as "no PVC" or "non-toxic."

From Science Daily • Feb. 19, 2026

Powell said Rondell had a suit and wig covered in flame retardant, and was covered in a gel to protect him.

From BBC • Aug. 17, 2025

In experiments, when the modified lignin was heated, it charred -- but did not burn up -- a sign that it could act as a flame retardant.

From Science Daily • Oct. 17, 2023

Toxic-Free Future, in studies published in 2017 and 2019, found most companies had replaced PBDEs, a type of brominated flame retardant, with more of the same class of chemicals.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 21, 2023

My brother, the revolutionary weirdo, has covered himself in flame retardant, to use his terminology.

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson