inflame
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪnˈfleɪm/
KK: /ɪnˈfleɪm/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become excited or to catch fire; to be affected by swelling or irritation.
Example
The debate began to inflame the audience's emotions.
Tense Forms
Past: inflamed
Past Participle: inflamed
Conversation
I heard that argument really inflamed the situation between them.
Yeah, emotions were running high after that.
It's crazy how just a few words can inflame things so quickly.
Totally! Sometimes it's best to just stay calm.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ignite
flare
arouse
Antonyms
calm
soothe
douse
transitive verb
Definition
To cause strong feelings or emotions in someone, or to make something more intense or violent.
Example
The speech was designed to inflame the audience's passion for the cause.
Tense Forms
Past: inflamed
Past Participle: inflamed
Conversation
Did you hear about the debate that really seemed to inflame the crowd?
Yeah, I saw some videos online — people were really passionate!
It's crazy how one topic can inflame emotions so quickly.
Root Explanation
Inflame → It is formed from "in-" (meaning into or upon) and "flamma" (meaning flame). The word "inflame" means to set something on fire or to intensify a feeling or emotion, as if igniting a flame within.
Memory Tip
Think of something being set 'into' a 'flame' — that's why inflame means to ignite or intensify.
Visually Confused Words
infame
reinflame
flame
uninflamed
misinflame
disinflame
infamize