kindle
/ˈkɪnd(ə)l/verb
To stir up or awaken a feeling or emotion in someone.
Example sentences
- “A childhood trip to the planetarium kindled her passion for astronomy.”
- “Their shared love of music kindled a friendship that lasted for decades.”
You kindle enthusiasm or hope; 'rekindle' is even more common, especially of old romances. The literal sense is starting a fire.