Definition of pyromaniac

The term "pyromaniac" originates from the Greek words "pyr" meaning fire and "mania" meaning obsession or frenzy. It was first coined in the 17th century to describe individuals who had an intense and irrational fear of fire, often leading them to engage in behaviors that would extinguish or prevent fires. Over time, the term's meaning shifted to encompass individuals who started fires for various reasons, such as for pleasure, attention, or as an extreme form of vandalism. Today, a pyromaniac is commonly defined as someone who has a compulsion to start fires, often as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotional issues.