Burn: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the process of something being consumed by fire or being damaged by heat. It can also refer to a feeling, like a burning sensation.

• The fire will burn for hours.
• Be careful not to burn yourself.
• The soup is too hot; it burns my tongue.

Used to describe the action of starting a fire or causing something to burn. It can also be used metaphorically to start something, like an idea or emotion.

• He used a match to ignite the bonfire.
• The lecture ignited their interest in science.
• Their small argument ignited into a huge fight.

Often used to describe a very large or fiercely burning fire. It can also metaphorically describe something intensely bright or passions/emotions that are very strong.

• The wildfire blazed through the forest.
• The sun blazed in the sky.
• His eyes blazed with anger.

Refers more specifically to the visible part of a fire. Can also be used metaphorically to describe strong feelings or actions, often negative.

• The candle's flame flickered in the wind.
• Their romance rekindled a new flame.
• She flamed him in the comments, showing her anger.