rekindle

verb

re·​kin·​dle ˌrē-ˈkin-dᵊl How to pronounce rekindle (audio)
rekindled; rekindling
Synonyms of rekindlenext
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

Examples of rekindle in a Sentence

the trip to Ireland rekindled her interest in learning Gaelic
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Their most memorable collective triumph came in the fall of 1988, when a perfect 12-0 season rekindled the glory and delivered the University of Notre Dame its 11th national championship in football. Andrew Carter, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2026 Florida’s dominance up front and improved backcourt play had rekindled the Gators’ hopes to become a rare repeat national champion. Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 Mar. 2026 His hopes to rekindle their relationship when the two teamed up to search for Charmaine were dashed, and Brie ultimately reunited with Brody. Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 12 Mar. 2026 Hunting down vintage toys can rekindle those memories of bygone eras. Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rekindle

Word History

First Known Use

1592, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rekindle was in 1592

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rekindle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rekindle. Accessed 20 Mar. 2026.

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