kindling

American  

[kind-ling] / ˈkɪnd lɪŋ /

noun

1. material that can be readily ignited, used in starting a fire.

2. the act of one who kindles. kindle.

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kindling British  

/ ˈkɪndlɪŋ /

noun

1. material for starting a fire, such as dry wood, straw, etc

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Other Word Forms

• unkindling adjective

Etymology

Origin of kindling

Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; kindle ¹, -ing ¹

Compare meaning

How does kindling compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• tinder vs. kindling

Example Sentences

We matter as much to him as a firestorm cares about kindling.

From Salon • Mar. 20, 2026

California has tens of millions of dead trees to serve as kindling for the next mega-fire, yet no single entity has sufficient authority or resources to address the threat.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2025

Every year, they brought in hundreds of goats to clear brush, which can be like kindling for any fire, throughout the community.

From BBC • Aug. 3, 2024

Among the tasks: fabricating plastic Christmas trees, building garden sheds, ripping pallets into kindling, and sorting metal in the junkyard.

From Seattle Times • May 26, 2024

“And distribute the kindling more evenly. And not so much paper.”

From "The Marvels" by Brian Selznick