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kindling

noun

/ˈkɪnd lɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of kindling

Small pieces of dry wood or other easily combustible material used to start a fire.
"He gathered a bundle of dry twigs and leaves for the kindling."

Detailed meaning of kindling

It serves as the initial fuel source that ignites and sustains a fire until larger logs or fuel can be added. Typically, kindling consists of small twigs, dry leaves, or shavings that catch fire quickly and generate enough heat to ignite larger pieces of wood. It plays a vital role in the fire-starting process, providing the necessary heat and flame to initiate the combustion of larger fuel sources. Kindling is often arranged in a structured manner, such as in a teepee or crisscross pattern, to allow for efficient air circulation and facilitate the spreading of the fire. Without kindling, starting a fire can be challenging, as larger logs or fuel may be difficult to ignite directly. Therefore, kindling acts as a crucial component, enabling the transformation of a spark or flame into a sustainable fire, ensuring warmth, cooking, and other practical uses.

Example sentences containing kindling

1. The crackling sound of kindling catching fire filled the air.
2. He carefully arranged the kindling in the fire pit, ready to light it.
3. The campers relied on the kindling to start their evening bonfire.
4. A handful of newspaper served as excellent kindling for the fireplace.
5. They used pine needles and small branches as kindling to ignite the stove.
6. The firewood was damp, so they added extra kindling to get it started.

History and etymology of kindling

The noun 'kindling,' in the context of small pieces of dry wood or other easily combustible material used to start a fire, has a straightforward etymology closely tied to its function. The term 'kindling' is derived from the Old English word 'cyndel,' which referred to 'a candle' or 'a torch.' In the context of starting fires, 'kindling' originally described the material used to ignite or light candles and torches. Over time, the word 'kindling' expanded its meaning to encompass any easily ignitable material, such as small pieces of dry wood or paper, used to initiate a fire. This evolution in meaning reflects the historical importance of kindling as a crucial element in the process of fire-making, emphasizing its role in enabling the initial ignition of larger fuel sources.

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Further usage examples of kindling

1. The hiker carried a small pouch of kindling in case of emergency.
2. The sparks from the match landed on the kindling, starting a small flame.
3. She blew gently on the kindling to encourage the fire to grow.
4. The scout demonstrated how to properly prepare kindling for a campfire.
5. We gathered dry grass and bark as kindling for the outdoor barbecue.
6. The kindling crackled and popped as the fire grew stronger.
7. The campers took turns feeding the kindling into the fire to keep it going.
8. The kindling quickly caught fire, providing warmth on the chilly night.
9. He carefully stacked the kindling to create a stable base for the logs.
10. They used a fire starter to ignite the kindling effortlessly.
11. The smell of burning kindling filled the room as the fireplace roared to life.
12. The warmth from the kindling spread throughout the cabin.
13. After the kindling was burning steadily, they added larger logs to the fire.
14. Gather some dry kindling to ignite the campfire.
15. A handful of kindling is essential for a cozy fireplace.
16. Without kindling, starting a bonfire can be challenging.
17. He skillfully arranged the kindling for a roaring fire.
18. Sparks flew as he added the kindling to the wood stove.
19. Wet kindling can frustrate even seasoned campers.
20. She used newspaper as a makeshift kindling substitute.
21. Kindling crackled, breathing life into the cold cabin.
22. In survival situations, finding dry kindling is crucial.
23. Kids love to help gather kindling for a family bonfire.
24. The fire's warmth began with a handful of twigs and kindling.