ignite
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ɪɡˈnaɪt/
KK: /ɪgˈnaɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To start burning or to catch fire.
Example
The dry leaves began to ignite when the sun hit them.
Tense Forms
Past: ignited
Past Participle: ignited
Conversation
Did you see the campfire last night?
Yeah, it was amazing how it ignited so quickly.
I know! It was like the flames just sprang to life.
Exactly, and it created such a warm atmosphere.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
flare
spark
blaze
Antonyms
extinguish
douse
quench
transitive verb
Definition
To cause something to start burning or to excite strong feelings in someone.
Example
The campfire was ignited with just a few matches.
Tense Forms
Past: ignited
Past Participle: ignited
Conversation
Did you see how that speech really ignited the crowd's enthusiasm?
Absolutely! Everyone was so pumped up after it.
I think that's what we need for our project — something to ignite interest.
Root Explanation
Ignite is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "gignere" (meaning to produce or create). The word describes the act of producing fire or light by causing something to burn.
Memory Tip
Think of 'producing' fire 'into' something — that's why ignite means to set something on fire.
Visually Confused Words
lignite
reignite
sinite
pinite
invite
indite
incite
ignote