ignite

/ɪɡˈnaɪt/ verb

Origin

From Latin ignitus, past participle of ignire (to set on fire), from ignis (fire)

Meanings

1. To set something on fire; to start burning

   • "He ignited the match with one quick strike."

2. To arouse or inflame (feelings, passions)

   • "Her speech ignited hope in the hearts of the audience."

3. To begin or set in motion

   • "The scandal ignited a political crisis."

Word Forms

• verb: ignite, ignites, igniting, ignited
• adjective: ignitable
• noun: ignition
• adverb: ignitedly

Synonyms

• kindle
• spark
• inflame
• light
• trigger
• incite
• fire up

Related Words

• combustion
• inflammatory
• ignitable
• igniter/ignitor

Memory Tips

1. Think "ig-NIGHT" - like starting a fire at night
2. Remember ignis (Latin for fire) + "-ite" (verb suffix)
3. Connect with "ignition" in cars - the process of starting the engine

Usage Notes

• Often used both literally (for actual fire) and figuratively (for emotions, situations)
• Commonly used in scientific and technical contexts
• Frequently appears in phrases like "ignite passion," "ignite interest," "ignite controversy"