cundel

to set fire to

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An older woman touches a burning match to dry tinder beneath a small arrangement of kindling; the first tiny flames visibly catch, showing the literal act of starting a fire.

verb

kindle

KIN-dul/ˈkɪndl/

To bring a fire into burning activity.

Etymology

kindleMiddle Englishto set fire to

Middle English cundel meant “to set fire to.” Arousing a feeling extends that image: a passion or emotion is treated as something that can be set alight.

Full entry

Related word entries

kindle