kindling

noun

kin·​dling ˈkin(d)-liŋ How to pronounce kindling (audio)
ˈkin-lən
Synonyms of kindlingnext
: easily combustible material for starting a fire

Examples of kindling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That’s the flint, but that’s not the kindling. — Eric Thomas, Sun Sentinel, 28 June 2026 That’s the flint but that’s not the kindling, however. — R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 28 June 2026 Then her husband, Kasoun, covers his hands in towels and picks up the metal tray with the kindling, bricks and clay pot and places it outside. — Diaa Hadid, NPR, 16 Apr. 2026 This should make light work of precisely slicing through leather and fabrics, opening packages, and preparing kindling and food. — New Atlas, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for kindling

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1522, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of kindling was circa 1522

Rhymes for kindling

See All Rhymes for kindling

Browse Nearby Words

kindliness
kindling
kindling temperature
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Cite this Entry

“Kindling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kindling. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

kindling

noun
kin·​dling ˈkin-(d)liŋ How to pronounce kindling (audio)
: material that burns easily and is used to start a fire

Medical Definition

kindling

noun
kind·​ling ˈkin-dliŋ How to pronounce kindling (audio)
: the electrophysiological changes that occur in the brain as a result of repeated intermittent exposure to a subthreshold electrical or chemical stimulus (as one causing seizures) so that there develops a usually permanent decrease in the threshold of excitability

More from Merriam-Webster on kindling

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for kindling

Nglish: Translation of kindling for Spanish Speakers

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