The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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inflame

verb

/ɪnˈfleɪm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of inflame

To provoke, intensify, or exacerbate a situation, emotion, or condition.
"The politician's speech was designed to inflame the passions of the crowd."

Detailed meaning of inflame

It involves igniting strong feelings, passion, or anger in oneself or others. To inflame means to fuel or stimulate a reaction, often negative or volatile, by adding heat, intensity, or provocative words or actions. It can refer to the act of stirring up conflict, inciting unrest, or aggravating tensions. In a physical sense, to inflame means to cause redness, swelling, or irritation in a part of the body due to injury or infection. Metaphorically, when used in a social or emotional context, it signifies the act of intensifying or aggravating an already volatile situation, making it more heated or emotionally charged. Inflaming a situation often leads to further discord, heightened emotions, or a worsening of the underlying problem.

Example sentences containing inflame

1. Her inflammatory remarks only served to inflame the already tense situation.
2. The article's biased reporting had the potential to inflame public opinion.
3. He tried to calm the situation, but his words only seemed to inflame the anger of the protesters.
4. The social media post quickly spread and inflamed a heated debate online.
5. The decision to raise taxes further inflamed the public's frustration with the government.
6. The inflammatory statements made by the leader only served to inflame the animosity between the two groups.

History and etymology of inflame

The verb 'inflame' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'inflammare,' which is formed from 'in' (meaning 'into') and 'flammare' (meaning 'to set on fire' or 'to ignite'). Therefore, the etymology of 'inflame' essentially means 'to set something into fire' or 'to ignite.' Over time, the term's meaning evolved from the literal act of setting something on fire to the more figurative sense of provoking, intensifying, or exacerbating a situation, emotion, or condition. It implies the idea of adding fuel to a metaphorical fire, making it burn more intensely, as we understand it in contemporary language.

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Further usage examples of inflame

1. The media's coverage of the event inflamed public outrage and led to widespread protests.
2. The rumors circulating about the incident only served to inflame tensions within the community.
3. The coach's harsh criticism inflamed the team members and led to a heated argument.
4. The inflammatory images posted on social media were meant to inflame religious tensions.
5. The journalist's sensational reporting was intended to inflame public interest and boost readership.
6. His inflammatory remarks only served to further divide the crowd.
7. The fiery debate continued to inflame passions on both sides.
8. Her criticism seemed to inflame his already fragile ego.
9. The reckless actions of the rioters threatened to inflame the situation.
10. The inflammatory article triggered a storm of controversy.
11. Trying to silence him only seemed to inflame his determination.
12. Political tensions in the region continued to inflame hostilities.
13. His constant teasing could easily inflame his little sister.
14. The scandalous revelation had the potential to inflame public outrage.
15. The harsh criticism did nothing but inflame his insecurities.
16. Ignoring the issue would only inflame the underlying problems.
17. The inflammatory rhetoric of the speaker fueled the crowd's anger.
18. The inflammatory video spread rapidly across social media.
19. Such behavior is likely to inflame already strained relationships.
20. The decision to raise taxes is sure to inflame public discontent.
21. Her attempt to justify her actions only inflamed the situation.
22. The inflammatory accusations cast doubt on his credibility.
23. Persistent misinformation can inflame public fear and confusion.
24. He knew his words had the power to inflame emotions.
25. The ongoing conflict threatened to inflame regional tensions.