SPARKED Synonyms: 133 Similar and Opposite Words

sparked

verb

Definition of sparked next

past tense of spark

as in sparkled

to give off sparks the broken radio sparked and smoked the instant it was plugged in

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in triggered

to cause to function interesting questions that are designed to spark the reader's brain

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in provoked

to rouse to strong feeling or action President Kennedy's inspirational speeches sparked a generation of young idealists to enter the public arena

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of sparked Energy security in focus The war’s disruption to the Strait of Hormuz has sharpened focus on energy security around the world and comes on the heels of the energy crisis sparked by Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. —

Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 4 June 2026 Since arriving at the zoo, the buffalo has attracted large crowds and sparked debate over its unusual nickname. —

Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 4 June 2026 While the film’s presence at the festival has sparked some controversy, Tribeca co-founder Jane Rosenthal defended the move to Variety, claiming the film should be looked at within the context of the ongoing Iran war. —

Corbin Bolies, Variety, 3 June 2026 Several nations, including Comoros and Kenya, have also seen steep fuel cost hikes that sparked deadly protests and forced governments to walk back price increases — and underscore broader economic vulnerabilities. —

Tiisetso Motsoeneng, semafor.com, 3 June 2026 His erratic behavior had already sparked concern on the set of his upcoming movie, The Rooster Prince, production sources previously told Rolling Stone. —

Cheyenne Roundtree, Rolling Stone, 3 June 2026 While the agreement will not fundamentally change the Los Angeles Olympics competition, the sport can now use the brand that sparked the obstacle-running community to draw more fans. —

Matt Moret, New York Times, 28 May 2026 Authorities are warning residents not to throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash after one sparked a dangerous fire inside a Roseville garbage truck. —

Madisen Keavy, CBS News, 27 May 2026 The possibility of Wilson’s retirement has sparked a candidate mad dash in a state where shots at the few safe Democratic federal seats are rare, and incumbents stay in them for decades. —

Claire Heddles, Miami Herald, 27 May 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for sparked

Verb

The tennis player sparkled in a peplum jacket and a dress with a long tulle train.

— Lara Walsh, InStyle, 30 May 2026
They were layered over a gold dress designed by Nike, striped with sequins which shimmered and sparkled in the Paris sunshine.

— Ava Wallace, New York Times, 28 May 2026