Ignite
/ɪɡˈnaɪt/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo cause something to start burning or to catch fire.
/ɪɡˈnaɪt/
To set something on fire or cause it to start burning.
The accident ignited a fire that spread quickly.
💡 Simply: Like starting a campfire! When you ignite something, you make it catch fire and start burning.
👶 For kids: To make something start burning, like when you light a candle.
More Examples
The chef used a torch to ignite the sugar on the crème brûlée.
A single spark can ignite a wildfire if conditions are dry.
How It's Used
"The match was used to ignite the kindling."
"The spark ignited the fuel."
To cause something to start or become more intense, such as an emotion, conflict, or activity.
/ɪɡˈnaɪt/
To cause something to begin or intensify, often referring to emotions or situations.
The scandal ignited a media frenzy.
💡 Simply: When you ignite something, you're not just lighting a fire, but you're making something else start, like a fight or a new idea! It's like turning up the heat.
👶 For kids: To make something start, like a feeling or a fight.
More Examples
The provocative speech ignited protests across the city.
His passion ignited a newfound interest in art.
How It's Used
"His words ignited a wave of anger among the crowd."
"The new policy ignited a fierce debate in the parliament."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
ignite the imagination
To inspire or stimulate someone's creativity and imagination.
"The artist's work ignited the imagination of art lovers worldwide."
From Latin *ignītus*, past participle of *ignīre* 'to set on fire', from *ignis* 'fire'.
Historically, 'ignite' has been used in both literal (setting fire) and figurative contexts (arousing emotions or starting conflicts).
Memory tip
Imagine a spark that jumps and *ignites* a pile of dry leaves – starting a fire!
Word Origin
"To set on fire"