rekindle

verb

re·​kin·​dle ˌrē-ˈkin-dᵊl 

rekindled; rekindling

1

transitive : to kindle (something) again

rekindle a fire

On the way the torch went out, and we took shelter in a small and lonely Christian chapel to rekindle it.

—Robert Louis Stevenson

: to start or stir up (something) again

The couple appeared to rekindle their romance, exchanging loving messages promising to try to make the relationship work again …

—Sarah Ward

"… You get a chance to meet up with people and rekindle memories … "

—Paul O'Connell

Its election offered an example of how to rekindle interest in politics …

—Vrasidas Karalis

Her story is one of those great stories of love, commitment and perseverance that rekindle your hope for humanity …

—Kimberly Fletcher

2

intransitive : to begin to burn again : to flare up again

Firefighters were called back to the scene around 6 a.m. when the flames rekindled.

—Mike Hasch

Synonyms

• revive
• resurrect
• renew

Examples of rekindle in a Sentence

the trip to Ireland rekindled her interest in learning Gaelic

Recent Examples on the Web

Clayton and Susie rekindled their romance but ultimately called things off in September 2022. —Charna Flam, People.com, 8 Aug. 2025

Charles and Camilla rekindled their romance after Diana died in 1997. —Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 1 Aug. 2025

In Season 2, premiering in 2023, Carrie rekindled her romance with former fiancé Aidan (John Corbett), Miranda deepened her connection with Che, and Charlotte faced challenges with family. —Matt Grobar, Deadline, 1 Aug. 2025

Parents will play a crucial role in helping shift their mindset from fatigue to anticipation, helping their child rekindle their enthusiasm and build positive momentum for the months ahead. —Hannah Nwoko, Parents, 28 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1592, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rekindle

• brindle
• dwindle
• grindal
• grindle
• kindle
• spindle
• swindle
• windle