inflammatory

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   characterized or caused by inflammation

   an inflammatory process

2. 2
   adj

   Tending to inflame or provoke somebody.

   Sam posted an inflammatory comment to the newsgroup.

3. 3
   adj

   Relating to, causing, or caused by inflammation.

   As we age, the major arteries of our bodies frequently become thickened with plaque, a fatty material with an oatmeal-like consistency that builds up along the inner lining of blood vessels. The reason plaque forms isn’t entirely known, but it seems to be related to high levels of cholesterol inducing an inflammatory response, which can also attract and trap more cellular debris over time.

4. 4
   adj

   arousing to action or rebellion

5. 5
   noun

   Any material that causes inflammation

Etymology

From inflame + -atory.