ignite

verb

Pronunciation: /ɪɡˈnaɪt/

Definition

Catch fire or cause something to begin burning.

Examples

• The spark was enough to ignite the leaking gas.

• A small flame can ignite a massive forest fire in dry conditions.

• The engine failed to ignite because the fuel line was blocked.

How to Use ignite

ignite something (collocation)

To cause a specific object to burn. — "The lightning strike ignited the dry brush."

be ignited by (collocation)

To be started by a specific source. — "The fire was ignited by a faulty electrical wire."

Synonyms of ignite

Words with a similar meaning to ignite:

• light
• start
• catch fire
• kindle
• combust

Antonyms of ignite

Words with the opposite meaning to ignite:

• extinguish
• quench

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