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April 23, 2026

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.

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