Definition
A substance that speeds up chemical reactions, most famously known for making fires spread faster—which is why arson investigators get really interested when they find petroleum products at fire scenes. In startup speak, it's sometimes used metaphorically for anything that rapidly grows a business, though actual accelerants are far more literal and illegal. Either way, things are about to get hot quickly.
Example Usage
The forensics team found traces of accelerant throughout the warehouse, turning what looked like an electrical fire into an arson investigation.
Source: Common forensics and chemistry terminology
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “accelerant” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
Try the Translator