Aroused to intense anger, passion, or excitement, as if set on fire emotionally. Can describe both anger and positive emotions that burn with intensity.
From Latin 'inflammare' (to set on fire), combining 'in-' (into) and 'flamma' (flame). The emotional meaning developed alongside the medical meaning of physical inflammation, both suggesting heat, swelling, and intensity.
The metaphor of emotional 'inflammation' is surprisingly accurate - both physical and emotional inflammation involve similar stress responses in the body, including increased cortisol and activated immune responses that can affect our mood and behavior!
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