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kindle

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈkɪndəl/

KK: /ˈkɪndəl/

intransitive verb
Definition

To start to burn or to become bright and glowing.


Example

The fire began to kindle as the dry leaves caught the spark.


Tense Forms

Past: kindled

Past Participle: kindled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how the fire started to kindle last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was really impressive to watch it grow.
Sloth A
I love when the flames begin to kindle and light up the whole area.
Sloth B
Me too! It creates such a cozy atmosphere.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
flare
ignite
spark
Antonyms
extinguish
douse
quench
noun
Definition

A group of young animals, especially kittens, born at the same time.


Example

The cat had a kindle of kittens in the warm corner of the barn.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that kindle of kittens at the shelter yesterday?
Sloth B
Yes, they were so adorable!
Sloth A
I can't believe they all found homes so quickly.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To start a fire or to cause something to burn; also, to inspire or awaken a feeling or emotion.


Example

The campers used dry leaves to kindle the fire.


Tense Forms

Past: kindled

Past Participle: kindled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that movie about the artist who struggled to kindle his creativity?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was really inspiring to watch his journey.
Sloth A
I loved how they showed the moments that finally kindled his passion for painting.
Root Explanation

Kindle originates from Old Norse 'kynda', meaning to set fire to or ignite. The word describes the act of igniting or starting a fire.

Memory Tip

Imagine the action of 'setting fire to' something — that's what kindle means, to ignite or start a fire.

Visually Confused Words
akindle
upkindle
rekindle
inkindle
enkindle
windle
sindle
rindle
Is this page helpful?
I know, it's great that they were adopted so fast!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
litter
brood
clutch
Antonyms
solitude
singularity
isolation
Sloth B
Exactly! It made me want to pick up a brush again.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ignite
arouse
light
Antonyms
extinguish
douse
quench