Flame: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes the visible part of a fire and is often used for smaller, controlled fires, like in a fireplace or candle.

• The flame of the candle flickered in the breeze

A general term for combustion that emits heat and light, it can be used in various contexts, from campfires to house fires.

• They gathered around the campfire to roast marshmallows

Refers to a large, intense fire and is often used to describe fires that are out of control or particularly fierce.

• The blaze quickly spread through the forest

Describes a massive, uncontrollable fire and often has a dramatic, negative connotation.

• The factory turned into an inferno within minutes

This term refers to a very small flame and is less commonly used in everyday language.

• The scientist observed the tiny flamelet in the laboratory experiment

Often used to refer to intense romantic feelings or to describe a fire. Can also denote anger or an offensive comment online, known as 'flaming'.

• Her first flame was a boy from her school.
• The fire department quickly put out the flame.
• He received a flame email criticizing his work harshly.

Used to describe strong emotions or enthusiasm, especially in love or hobbies. It can refer to a wide range of strong feelings.

• His passion for music was evident in every performance.
• Their passion for each other was obvious to everyone around them.

Used to describe great enthusiasm or love, often in a poetic or formal sense.

• She approached her art with great ardor.
• His ardor for her never faded, even after many years.

Refers to energetic and intense devotion to a cause or activity. It often carries a positive connotation of dedication.

• The volunteers worked with zeal to clean up the park.
• Her zeal for education led her to teach in underserved areas.

Refers to strong, intense feelings, usually about beliefs or actions. Often used in a religious or enthusiastic context.

• The crowd expressed their fervor during the rally.
• Her fervor for justice led her to become a lawyer.

The term 'flame' can be used in online contexts where someone is aggressively attacking or criticizing another person through messages or posts. It has a negative connotation and is often associated with hostility in conversations.

• He started to flame her in the comments section after she posted her opinion.
• The discussion quickly turned into a flame war.

The word 'anger' refers to the emotional state of being very upset or mad. It is used in general contexts to describe the feeling of being irate due to frustration, injustice, or annoyance.

• His anger was evident when he slammed the door behind him.
• She couldn't contain her anger during the meeting.

'Enrage' is used when something or someone causes intense anger, making a person extremely angry. It has a very strong and negative connotation.

• The unfair decision by the judge enraged the crowd.
• His rude comments only served to enrage her further.

Use 'inflame' when referring to making a situation or feeling more intense, particularly in a negative way. It is often used when describing how comments or actions can escalate tensions or anger.

• The politician's speech was designed to inflame public opinion.
• Her hateful remarks inflamed the tensions between the two groups.

'Irritate' means to cause slight anger or annoyance. It is less intense than 'anger' or 'enrage' and can refer to both physical and emotional irritation.

• The constant noise irritated him throughout the night.
• She was irritated by his persistent questions.