I’m sure I’ve heard the word used in the type of context the OP refers to, like in relation to Hollywood movies, where Rita Hayworth’s character is described as a real firebrand. It’s not a term I’m generally familiar with or use, but it popped straight into my head when I read the OP.
When I was younger, yes it was. As I previously posted I admittedly may be dating myself. A guy might have been “trying to make trouble” (or stir trouble) but the term “troublemaker” in itself was reserved to describe a girl that was doing exactly what the OP describes.
Definitions of terms do change. When I was a teen in the early-70’s a “hose beast” was a girl who loved cock and liked to fuck. A lot! Today it means neither.
I’ll just note that I answered my own question. Feel free to close the thread, if it continues to devolve.
Back in the 1960s, when transactional analysis was all the rage, psychologist Eric Berne described the gambit as “Let’s you and him fight” (a phrase that goes all the way back to Popeye cartoons.) Berne never gave a nickname to the characters, though.
Thread devolution
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A critical term of art familiar to every mod.
Single-word terms are pointless. Just from my experience: a-woman-at-the-bar-with-male-companion(s).
If one such approaches you and engages you in friendly conversation, time to excuse yourself. Get out of there.
Fair enough. Closed as answered to the satisfaction of the OP.
Those who wish to discuss other aspects of this question are welcome to open a thread in GD, IMHO, or the Pit, depending on where you wish to take it.