ignite
Ignite (verb) means to set something on fire, or to begin burning. Example: “A stray spark ignited the dry grass and started a wildfire.”
How to use ignite
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo catch fire or make something catch fire, or figuratively, to spark off a strong reaction.
Word forms
ignited past tense, ignites singular
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
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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.