as in fuel
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as in burning
to set (something) on fire
worried that lightning will kindle the forest in the drought-stricken nature preserve
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of kindling
Isabel Debre, Los Angeles Times, 11 Feb. 2026
The lint will light quickly and get your kindling off to a good start.
—Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 3 Feb. 2026
Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 25 Mar. 2026
Even minor parks or embers might be carried into leaves or grass, kindling a fire that can swiftly expand.
—Kansas City Star Weather Bot, Kansas City Star, 21 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for kindling
Noun
The invasive species have replaced native, more fire-resistant ecosystems in the region, turning shrub, brush and grass into kindling.
—Isabel Debre, Los Angeles Times, 11 Feb. 2026
The lint will light quickly and get your kindling off to a good start.
—Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 3 Feb. 2026
Verb
Rather than have their payroll and egos be kindling for clubhouse dysfunction, the Dodgers have found a formula to keep their winning ways going.
—Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 25 Mar. 2026
Even minor parks or embers might be carried into leaves or grass, kindling a fire that can swiftly expand.
—Kansas City Star Weather Bot, Kansas City Star, 21 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for kindling
Recent Examples of Synonyms for kindling
Noun
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Meanwhile, Trump’s decision to go to war with Iran has roiled the global energy markets and sent the cost of gas and jet fuel soaring.—
Kyle Feldscher,
CNN Money,
11 June 2026
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According to Susana Reyes, Vice President for Chamber and Plant Design, this liquid barrier absorbs neutron flux, generates tritium fuel, and transfers heat while constantly renewing itself.—
Aman Tripathi,
Interesting Engineering,
11 June 2026
Verb
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Just seconds later, local residents recorded on their cellphones the initial stages of the Eaton fire, burning at the base of the tower, known as M16T1.—
Tony Saavedra,
Daily News,
10 June 2026
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The 24-year-old’s burning desire, elite athleticism, and an electrifying season at Triple-A Albuquerque busted down the big-league door.—
Patrick Saunders,
Denver Post,
10 June 2026
Noun
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Small satellites, for example, could make use of the propellant to save fuel during Earth-observing missions, especially when they're tasked to pivot for a fast-moving weather event.—
Elizabeth Howell,
Space.com,
9 June 2026
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Even if a can doesn’t burst, heat can degrade the propellant and active ingredients, reducing their effectiveness or altering their composition.—
Mary Cornetta,
Better Homes & Gardens,
7 June 2026
Verb
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Fans were seen climbing onto and attempting to flip over a taxi, igniting fireworks, throwing glass bottles and getting into fights, police allege.—
Ben Brachfeld,
PEOPLE,
12 June 2026
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In that same county, the Grayslake Village Board recently approved a massive data-center complex, igniting a firestorm within the normally quiet exurb.—
The Editorial Board,
Chicago Tribune,
12 June 2026
Noun
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Federal officials this year sent water from the upstream Flaming Gorge Reservoir to Lake Powell to stave off an emergency where water levels in the lower reservoir fall so low that water no longer flows through the dam’s power turbines — the only safe way to release water for extended periods.—
Elise Schmelzer,
Denver Post,
7 June 2026
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That still left a lot of the two-time league champion’s star power exposed to be plucked by the four new teams looking to fill rosters.—
Tom Carothers,
Twin Cities,
7 June 2026
Verb
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In a criminal complaint, authorities allege Rinderknecht caused the initial fire by lighting a combustible material, such as vegetation or paper, with an open flame, likely a lighter.—
Meredith Deliso,
ABC News,
8 June 2026
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Light Your Pathways Both Ervin and Morris recommend lighting the pathways that lead from the driveway or street to the front door using path lights.—
Sarah Lyon,
The Spruce,
8 June 2026
Noun
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Wellness gurus will also appreciate the range of treatments and healing modalities on offer at The Lotus Spa, from classic massages and facials to Reiki energy work and sound baths.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
12 June 2026
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Set your thermostat to 78°F in summer to balance comfort and energy savings.—
Ashlyn Needham,
Southern Living,
12 June 2026
Verb
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Fans see scorching numbers at Triple-A Albuquerque and clamor for promotions.—
Patrick Saunders,
Denver Post,
7 June 2026
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Luckily for England, Kane was scorching hot in 2025-26, scoring 61 goals for Bayern Munich across all competitions.—
Justin Birnbaum,
Sportico.com,
4 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Kindling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/kindling. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.
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