ENGLISH
REFERENCE

ignited

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɪɡˈnaɪtɪd// UK //ɪɡnˈaɪtɪd// ig·nit·ed

adj. describing something that has started to burn or catch fire. It can also describe a strong feeling or an idea that has suddenly become very active.

adj. having been set on fire or made to burn. Often used figuratively to describe emotions, debates, or processes that have been suddenly sparked or intensified; functions as a participial adjective in both literal and metaphorical contexts.


SIMPLE

The dry wood is now ignited and burning well.

CONTEXTUAL

The speaker's controversial comments ignited a fierce debate among the audience members that lasted for hours.

COMPLEX

Once the fuel source was successfully ignited, the engine roared to life, providing the necessary thrust for the experimental aircraft to begin its ascent.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Often follows a linking verb like 'is' or 'became', or appears before a noun to describe a state.

Pitfall

The fire was ignited by itselfThe fire ignited by itselfWhen describing a fire starting naturally, 'ignite' is often used as an intransitive verb without 'was'.

© 2026 English Reference