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

But any existential panic ignited by that slow start ultimately was short-lived.

From Los Angeles Times

Don’t ask me why metal melted and double-paned windows shattered but a house made of wood didn’t ignite.

From Los Angeles Times

About five hours after the fire ignited near Somis around 9 a.m. on Nov. 6, some firefighters hit a snag in their response efforts.

From Los Angeles Times

When they land, they risk igniting new spot fires, which can quickly devour homes.

From Los Angeles Times

I quickly discovered I was pretty good at it, which kind of ignited my enjoyment and satisfaction I gained through cooking.

From Salon

Related Words

• burn
• flare up
• inflame
• kindle