# stir the embers

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/stir-the-embers
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Synonym of fan the flames.

## Examples

- Don't stir the embers of that old argument.
- By bringing up the past mistake during the meeting, he only served to stir the embers of their previous conflict.
- The journalist's investigative report threatened to stir the embers of a scandal that the public had long since forgotten.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.