Rekindle: meaning, definitions and examples

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rekindle

 

[ rɪˈkɪnd(ə)l ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

romantic relationship

To revive or renew a romantic relationship, often after a period of distance or lack of communication. It involves rekindling the emotional connection and passion that once existed.

Synonyms

ignite, reignite, renew, revive.

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Word Description / Examples
rekindle

Often used to describe reigniting emotions, relationships, or passions that have diminished over time.

  • They decided to take a vacation together to rekindle their romance
  • The old friends rekindled their friendship after many years apart
revive

Implies bringing back to life or consciousness. Can be used for people, shows, traditions, or any activities that have diminished or stopped.

  • The medical team tried to revive the patient after a heart attack
  • They revived an old tradition by hosting a holiday dinner
renew

Used when something is refreshed or restored, such as a membership, effort, or energy. Often has a positive connotation.

  • I need to renew my passport before traveling
  • His vacation gave him renewed energy for work
ignite

Commonly used when starting a fire or sparking an idea. Can also refer to starting strong emotions or actions.

  • The campfire failed to ignite in the wet weather
  • Her passion for writing was ignited by a creative writing course
reignite

Used when something that was burning or active has died down but starts again. Often refers to strong emotions, debates, or conflicts.

  • The announcement reignited the debate over health care reform
  • Their old rivalries were reignited when they met again

Examples of usage

  • She hoped to rekindle their love by planning a surprise weekend getaway.
  • After their argument, they took time apart to rekindle their feelings for each other.
  • He sent her flowers to rekindle the spark in their relationship.

Translations

Translations of the word "rekindle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reacender

🇮🇳 फिर से जलाना

🇩🇪 wieder entfachen

🇮🇩 menyalakan kembali

🇺🇦 розпалити знову

🇵🇱 ponownie rozpalić

🇯🇵 再燃させる

🇫🇷 raviver

🇪🇸 reavivar

🇹🇷 yeniden canlandırmak

🇰🇷 다시 불붙이다

🇸🇦 أشعل من جديد

🇨🇿 znovu rozdmýchat

🇸🇰 znovu rozprúdiť

🇨🇳 重新点燃

🇸🇮 znova zanetiti

🇮🇸 endurlífga

🇰🇿 қайта тұтандыру

🇬🇪 ხელახლა აანთო

🇦🇿 yenidən yandırmaq

🇲🇽 reavivar

Etymology

The word 'rekindle' originates from the combination of 're-' meaning 'again' and 'kindle' meaning 'to set on fire'. The metaphorical use of 'rekindle' in the context of relationships dates back to the late 18th century, reflecting the idea of reigniting the flame of passion or love.

See also: rekindled.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,557, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.