ignite

[ ig-nahyt ]

verb (used with object)

, ig·nit·ed, ig·nit·ing.

1. to set on fire; kindle.
2. Chemistry. to heat intensely; roast.

verb (used without object)

, ig·nit·ed, ig·nit·ing.

1. to take fire; begin to burn.

ignite

/ ɪɡˈnaɪt /

verb

1. to catch fire or set fire to; burn or cause to burn
2. tr chem to heat strongly
3. tr to stimulate or provoke

   the case has ignited a nationwide debate

Derived Forms

• igˈnitable, adjective
• igˌnitaˈbility, noun

Other Words From

• ig·nita·ble ig·niti·ble adjective
• ig·nita·bili·ty ig·niti·bili·ty noun
• nonig·nita·bili·ty noun
• nonig·nita·ble adjective
• nonig·niti·bili·ty noun
• nonig·niti·ble adjective
• reig·nite verb (used with object) reignited reigniting
• unig·nita·ble adjective
• unig·nited adjective
• unig·niting adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ignite¹

First recorded in 1660–70; from Latin ignītus “set on fire,” past participle of ignīre “to set on fire,” from ign(is) “fire” + -īre, infinitive verb suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of ignite¹

C17: from Latin ignīre to set alight, from ignis fire

Synonym Study

See kindle ¹.

Example Sentences

Officials lifted evacuation warnings as firefighters made some progress containing a wildfire near the Jurupa Valley that ignited Thanksgiving Day.

From Los Angeles Times

The revelations soon ignited widespread criticism, with consumers accusing sanitary pad makers of being deceitful.

From BBC

Junior quarterback Jack Thomas has ignited Palisades’ offense, but the versatile Jahmir Torres figures to find a way to make things happen for King/Drew.

From Los Angeles Times

What’s more, building the escape room has ignited a passion for crafting environments, and he hopes for a career in the theme park industry.

From Los Angeles Times

But the chancellor is banking that the impact of the Budget, next spring's spending review and forthcoming reforms to skills, planning and more can ignite some economic growth.

From BBC

Related Words

• burn
• flare up
• inflame
• kindle