verb
Uncommon
ignite
ihg-NYT
Ignite (verb) means to set something on fire, or to begin burning. Example: “A stray spark ignited the dry grass and started a wildfire.”
verb
1
To set something on fire, or to begin burning.
"A stray spark ignited the dry grass and started a wildfire."
"The fuel-air mixture ignites the instant it hits the spark plug."
2
To trigger or start something suddenly, especially strong emotion or conflict.
"The comment ignited a heated debate online."
How to use ignite
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo catch fire or make something catch fire, or figuratively, to spark off a strong reaction.
Common pairings
ignite a spark
ignite controversy
ignite a fire
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- ignites
- Past tense
- ignited
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A stray spark _____ the dry grass and started a wildfire.
Etymology
From Latin ignire, "to set on fire," from ignis, "fire" — the same root behind words like "igneous."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for ignite
See all rhymes for ignite →Frequently asked questions
What does “ignite” mean?
The word “ignite” means to set something on fire, or to begin burning. In plain terms, to catch fire or make something catch fire, or figuratively, to spark off a strong reaction.
How do you pronounce “ignite”?
“Ignite” is pronounced ihg-NYT (/ɪɡˈnaɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “ignite” in a sentence?
Here is “ignite” used in a sentence: “A stray spark ignited the dry grass and started a wildfire.”
What part of speech is “ignite”?
“Ignite” is a verb.
Where does the word “ignite” come from?
The word “ignite” comes from Latin. From Latin ignire, "to set on fire," from ignis, "fire" — the same root behind words like "igneous.".
Is “ignite” a common word?
“Ignite” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “ignite” have?
“Ignite” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to set something on fire, or to begin burning.
