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

When dry weather does settle in, fires are more likely to ignite.

From Slate

In yet another directorial gambit, Gold’s “Romeo + Juliet” looks, sounds and no doubt smells like teen spirit in a production determined to ignite a new generation’s love affair with the play.

From Los Angeles Times

The Santa Anas often bring triple-digit temperatures and a relative humidity below 10%, leading to drier fuel that can ignite more easily.

From Los Angeles Times

Israel’s retaliatory bombardment of Iran on Saturday appeared to be limited in scope, but Western nations including the U.S. warned another spark could swiftly ignite a new and dangerous round of Middle East escalation.

From Los Angeles Times

Then, it was the Lakers’ turn to ignite that excitement.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• burn
• flare up
• inflame
• kindle