Kindling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
kindling
[หkษชnd.lษชล ]
Definitions
firewood preparation
Dry twigs, paper, or other flammable material used to start a fire.
Synonyms
fire starter, ignition material, tinder.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| kindling |
Small sticks or twigs used to start a fire. Commonly used in the context of camping or wood-burning stoves.
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| tinder |
Very lightweight and dry material such as paper, bark, or grass that catches fire easily. Frequently mentioned in survival scenarios or when describing traditional fire-making techniques.
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| ignition material |
Technical term commonly used in engineering or firefighting to describe any substance that can initiate combustion. Often used in formal or industrial contexts.
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| fire starter |
Materials or devices specifically designed to initiate a fire. This may include chemical compounds, commercial products, or natural materials.
|
Examples of usage
- Sarah used kindling to start the campfire.
- The kindling caught fire quickly and helped ignite the logs.
emotional context
Small acts of kindness or gestures that help build positive relationships.
Synonyms
acts of kindness, friendly gestures, gestures of goodwill.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| kindling |
Used to refer to small pieces of wood or other materials used to start a fire. This term is often applied in camping, survival situations, or when discussing fire-building.
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| gestures of goodwill |
Actions taken to demonstrate good intentions or a desire to promote positive relations, often in diplomatic, business, or conflict resolution contexts.
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| acts of kindness |
Refers to actions performed with the intention of helping or benefiting others, often without expecting anything in return. Common in contexts related to charity, community service, and personal relationships.
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| friendly gestures |
Describes actions or behaviors that show friendliness, warmth, or a desire to establish or maintain a good rapport. These are often used in social interactions to foster goodwill.
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Examples of usage
- Her kindling of friendship with her new neighbor made her feel welcome.
- She appreciated the kindling of support from her colleagues during a difficult time.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Fire Safety
- Using proper kindling is crucial for building a safe and efficient fire, as it affects how quickly and evenly a fire can start.
- Natural kindling materials include thin branches, dried grass, and bark, which are preferred over synthetic items for safety.
Literature
- Kindling is often used metaphorically in literature to represent the beginnings of a passion or idea that grows into something larger.
- In poetry, kindling is sometimes described as the spark that ignites a change in emotions or thoughts.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, gathering kindling is a communal activity, symbolizing cooperation and preparation for warmth during cold seasons.
- Traditional storytelling around fires often revolves around the process of collecting and using kindling, representing connection and survival.
Science
- The combustion of kindling must reach a specific temperature for a fire to sustain itself, a principle explored in thermodynamics.
- Chemical reactions in burning kindling produce heat and light, which are essential in various applications, including cooking and heating.
Origin of 'kindling'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'kindling' comes from the Old English term 'cynd', meaning 'to ignite' or 'to be born'.
- Originally, it described anything that caught fire easily, particularly small twigs or dry leaves.
The word 'kindling' originated from the Middle English word 'kรผndlyng', which meant 'a young child or animal'. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to small sticks or twigs used to start a fire. The concept of 'kindling' has been essential in the history of fire-making, as it provided the initial spark needed to ignite larger fuel sources. In a broader sense, 'kindling' also represents the idea of nurturing and fostering relationships through small acts of kindness and goodwill.
See also: kind, kinden, kindergarten, kindle, kindly, kindness, kindred, kinds, unkind, unkindly, unkindness.