<p><strong>Verb (used with object)</strong></p><ul><li>to start (a fire)</li><li>cause (a flame, blaze, etc.) to begin burning</li></ul><p><strong>Synonyms</strong></p><ul><li>light</li><li>fire</li><li>to set fire to or ignite (fuel or any combustible matter)</li><li>to excite</li><li>stir up or set going</li><li>animate</li><li>rouse</li><li>inflame</li></ul><p><strong>Example</strong></p><ul><li>He kindled their hopes of victory.</li></ul><p><strong>Synonyms</strong></p><ul><li>stimulate</li><li>incite</li><li>bestir</li><li>awaken</li><li>arouse</li></ul><p><strong>Verb (used without object)</strong></p><ul><li>to begin to burn, as combustible matter</li><li>a light, fire, or flame</li><li>to become aroused or animated</li><li>to become lighted up, bright, or glowing, as the sky at dawn or the eyes with ardor</li></ul>