ignite

To make something start burning.

• A spark ignited the gas.
• Use a match to ignite the dry wood.
• The burning branch ignited the grass below.

Similar words: light, set fire to, kindle

Opposites: extinguish

Common phrases: ignite a fire, ignite the fuel, ignite dry grass

To cause a strong feeling, interest, or event to begin.

• The book ignited her curiosity.
• His speech ignited a heated debate.
• Can this campaign ignite public interest?

Similar words: trigger, spark, arouse, stir up

Common phrases: ignite interest, ignite a debate, ignite someone's passion

To heat a substance very strongly, even when it does not burn.

• Ignite the sample in a furnace.
• The chemist ignited the residue before weighing it.
• They ignited the powder at a high temperature.

Similar words: heat strongly

Common phrases: ignite the sample, ignite the residue, ignite in air