Fueling
/ˈfjuːəlɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo supply with fuel; to provide with something that sustains or encourages.
/ˈfjuːəlɪŋ/
Adding fuel to a vehicle or system
The mechanic is fueling the generator with diesel.
💡 Simply: Imagine your car is hungry! Fueling is like giving it food so it can go vroom. It's also like giving someone ideas or energy to keep going.
👶 For kids: Adding stuff to make something go. Like putting gas in a car!
More Examples
The company is fueling its growth with investments in research.
He was fueling the fire with logs.
How It's Used
"The plane is fueling before its long flight."
"The power plant is fueling with natural gas."
To provide with something that encourages or intensifies (typically negative emotions or actions).
/ˈfjuːəlɪŋ/
Encouraging or intensifying something (figurative)
The rumors were fueling the panic.
💡 Simply: When something is fueling, it's like pouring gasoline on a fire – it makes it burn bigger and stronger. It can be used to talk about making something like anger or conflict worse.
👶 For kids: Making something bigger or stronger. Like adding more wood to a fire.
More Examples
His ambition was fueling his relentless pursuit of success.
The controversial statement fueled the protests.
How It's Used
"The media is fueling the debate with sensationalized stories."
"His insecurities were fueling his anger."
From Middle English *fuellen*, from Old French *fuillier* (to supply with fuel), from *fueil* (fuel), from Vulgar Latin *foculare* (to kindle, light a fire), from Latin *focus* (hearth, fireplace).
Historically, 'fueling' primarily referred to adding physical fuel. Over time, its metaphorical use expanded to include actions or conditions that stimulate or intensify other processes or emotions.
Memory tip
Think of a car needing fuel to run. Fueling provides the necessary energy.