kindle

¹

[kin-dl]

verb (used with object)

kindled, kindling 

1. to start (a fire); cause (a flame, blaze, etc.) to begin burning.

   Synonyms: light, fire

2. to set fire to or ignite (fuel or any combustible matter).

3. to excite; stir up or set going; animate; rouse; inflame.

   He kindled their hopes of victory.

   Synonyms: stimulate, incite, bestir, awaken, arouse

4. to light up, illuminate, or make bright.

   Happiness kindled her eyes.

verb (used without object)

kindled, kindling 

1. to begin to burn, as combustible matter, a light, fire, or flame.

2. to become aroused or animated.

3. to become lighted up, bright, or glowing, as the sky at dawn or the eyes with ardor.

kindle

²

[kin-dl]

verb (used with object)

kindled, kindling 

1. (of animals, especially rabbits) to bear (young); produce (offspring).

verb (used without object)

kindled, kindling 

1. (of animals, especially rabbits) to give birth, as to a litter.

noun

1. a litter of kittens, rabbits, etc.

kindle

¹

/ ˈkɪndəl /

verb

1. to set alight or start to burn

2. to arouse or be aroused

   the project kindled his interest

3. to make or become bright

Kindle

²

/ ˈkɪndəl /

noun

1. a portable electronic device for downloading and reading books

Other Word Forms

• kindler noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of kindle¹

First recorded in 1150–1200; Middle English kindlen, from Old Norse kynda (compare Old Norse kindill “torch, candle”) + -le ( def. )

Origin of kindle²

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English kindelen, verb use of kindel “offspring, young,” equivalent to kind- ( Old English gecynd “offspring”) + -el; -le, kind ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of kindle¹

C12: from Old Norse kynda, influenced by Old Norse kyndill candle

Synonym Study

Kindle, ignite, inflame literally mean to set something on fire. To kindle is to cause something gradually to begin burning; it is often used figuratively: to kindle logs; to kindle someone's interest. To ignite is to set something on fire with a sudden burst of flame; it too is often used figuratively: to ignite straw; to ignite dangerous hatreds. Inflame is most often used figuratively, meaning to intensify, excite, or rouse: to inflame passions.

Example Sentences

Milei’s post-midterms victory speech kindled hope for less chain saw and more coalition building over the next two years, Stock says.

Read more on Barron's

Speaking at her late husband’s memorial service on Sept. 21, Erika Kirk said Charlie’s death had kindled a spiritual renewal for many of his followers.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Among the locals, his arrival has kindled hopes of an economic renaissance, but it has also stoked controversy.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The Times’ Bill Shaikin has pointed out that geographical realignment would be tied to schedule reform that could help kindle rivalries and encourage fans to visit opposing ballparks that are within driving distance.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The pair of reality TV stars who kindled a romance last year on “Love Island” Season 6 have called it quits, The Times confirmed Monday.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• arouse 
• awaken 
• foment 
• inflame 
• inspire 
• provoke 
• rouse 
• sharpen 
• stimulate 
• stir 
• whet 
• work up