le tison
firebrand · ember
Definition & meaning
A tison is a piece of wood or coal that remains in a fire and is still glowing or smouldering. It can also mean a firebrand: something that rekindles a fire.
Figuratively, it can describe something that revives or fuels a feeling, dispute, or conflict.
Grammar & Word origin
Tison is a masculine noun: un tison. Its plural is des tisons. The word is not usually divided into meaningful parts in modern French. It comes from the Latin titio, meaning a burning piece of wood.
The related verb is , meaning to stir or poke a fire, especially to make it burn more strongly.
Synonyms & antonyms
- means glowing embers or hot coals more generally; a often suggests a distinct piece of wood or coal.
- can mean a burning piece of wood, but it may also refer to a flaming torch or a firebrand.
- means a glowing coal and is more specific to coal.
There is no common direct antonym.
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
Il remue un tison dans le feu.noun
He stirs a firebrand in the fire.
Un tison brillait encore dans la cheminée.noun
An ember was still glowing in the fireplace.
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