1. a person who deliberately sets fires; an arsonist
Usage: informal
2. a red insect with a black body and red wing covers, found in warm regions
Usage: also called a red bug or cotton stainer

Examples

• The arson investigator suspected a firebug was responsible for the series of warehouse fires.
• Police arrested the firebug after he was caught leaving the scene of the third fire.
• Firebugs are attracted to warm climates and are common pests in southern agricultural regions.
• The farmer discovered firebugs damaging his cotton crop.
• Authorities warned residents to report any suspicious activity that might indicate a firebug at work.