Kindle
'kɪndəl
Definitions
3 meaningsTo start a fire or cause something to burn.
'kɪndəl
To set fire to or ignite.
The boy struggled to kindle the damp wood.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're camping. To 'kindle' a fire is to get it started, like using a match to light the kindling wood. You could also 'kindle' a barbecue to start cooking those burgers!
👶 For kids: To start a fire or make something burn.
More Examples
The hiker used flint and steel to kindle a fire.
The match was enough to kindle the dry leaves.
How It's Used
"He used dry twigs to kindle the campfire."
To arouse or inspire an emotion or feeling.
'kɪndəl
To arouse or inspire (an emotion or feeling).
The story kindled her imagination.
💡 Simply: It’s like sparking an emotion, like when a great story 'kindles' your excitement or a sad song 'kindles' your sadness. Think about how a good speech can 'kindle' enthusiasm!
👶 For kids: To make someone feel something strong, like happiness or anger.
More Examples
The painting kindled a deep sense of peace.
The teacher's words kindled the students' interest in science.
How It's Used
"The music kindled a sense of nostalgia within her."
"His speech kindled a spirit of rebellion in the crowd."
Material such as small twigs, sticks, or leaves used to start a fire.
'kɪndlɪŋ
Small pieces of dry wood or other material used to start a fire.
The camper gathered kindling to build a fire.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a campfire, 'kindling' is the small, dry wood you use to get the flames going. It's like the starter kit for your fire.
👶 For kids: Small pieces of wood or stuff that help start a fire.
More Examples
The ranger showed how to use kindling properly.
The fire needed more kindling to continue burning.
How It's Used
"He gathered kindling and arranged it under the logs to start the fire."
Synonyms
From Old English *cyndan* ('to bring forth, give birth, generate') and related to Middle High German *künden* ('to announce'). It initially meant to ignite or set fire to something, and later expanded to include figurative uses like arousing emotions or interests.
The word "kindle" has been used since the Old English period. It originally referred to the act of lighting a fire. The figurative use (inspiring emotion) developed later, around the 14th century.
Memory tip
Think of kindling wood – you use it to start a fire.