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What is the Meaning of “Kindle”?

Kindle
/ˈkɪndəl/
verb C1 Tier 4 (Top 10,000 words)

To start a fire; or to awaken feelings or interest in someone

Definition of Kindle

Quick Meaning of Kindle

To start a fire; or to awaken feelings or interest in someone

Detailed Definition of Kindle

To light or start a fire; to arouse, stir up, or awaken an emotion, feeling, or interest

How to Pronounce Kindle

IPA: /ˈkɪndəl/
kin dle

Stress pattern: oo (2-syllable word).

Tip: Pronounced /ˈkɪndəl/ with stress on first syllable

Watch out: Check IPA: /ˈkɪndəl/

Full pronunciation guide for “kindle” →

Origin and Etymology of Kindle

From Old Norse 'kynda' meaning to kindle. Related to Middle English 'kindelen'. Used since 12th century for fire and metaphorically for emotions.

How to Use Kindle in a Sentence

Each example shows “kindle” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “He kindled the campfire using dry wood and kindling.”
    C1 daily
  • “The speech kindled a new sense of hope in the community.”
    C1 formal
  • “Her passion for music kindled an interest in many young students.”
    C1 written

Synonyms and Antonyms of Kindle

Common Synonyms for Kindle

Smart Synonyms for Kindle — When to Use Each

ignite
Light or set fire to something
spark
Start or trigger a process or emotion
awaken
Bring forth or stimulate feelings

See all synonyms for “kindle” →

Common Collocations with Kindle

These phrases pair with “kindle” in everyday English:

  • kindle a fire
  • kindle interest
  • kindle hope
  • kindle enthusiasm
  • kindle emotion

Common Mistakes When Using Kindle

Even fluent speakers slip up with “kindle”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: She kindled the fire with many woods
✓ Correct: She kindled the fire with dry wood
Why: Use singular 'wood' as material; specify 'dry'
✗ Wrong: The story kindled feelings of anger in his heart
✓ Correct: The story kindled anger in him
Why: More direct phrasing; avoid 'feelings of' redundancy
✗ Wrong: They kindled the emotion by telling stories
✓ Correct: They kindled emotions by telling stories
Why: Emotions typically used in plural; or use specific emotion

Other Forms of Kindle

Frequently Asked Questions About Kindle

What is the meaning of "Kindle"?

To start a fire; or to awaken feelings or interest in someone

How do you pronounce "Kindle"?

The IPA is /ˈkɪndəl/. Pronounced /ˈkɪndəl/ with stress on first syllable

What part of speech is "Kindle"?

"Kindle" is a verb at C1 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Kindle"?

Common synonyms include light, ignite, spark.

How do you use "Kindle" in a sentence?

For example: "He kindled the campfire using dry wood and kindling."

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