English Reference

Word

sparked

US/ˈspɑɹkt/

UK/spˈɑːkt/

Definitions

01to cause a reaction

B2

v. to cause a sudden reaction or start a process, like an argument or a new idea.

v. to trigger or initiate a sudden and often intense reaction, debate, or series of events.

“The new law sparked protests across the city as people demanded change.”

“The senator's controversial remarks sparked a heated debate regarding the ethical implications of the proposed environmental policy.”

02to start a fire

B2

v. to start a fire by creating small, bright flashes of light.

v. to produce sparks that ignite a fire or electrical discharge.

“A short circuit in the old wiring sparked a small fire in the attic.”

“The friction from the grinding wheel sparked a fire when it came into contact with the oily rags left on the workbench.”

Synonyms

Antonyms

doused

03electrically treated

C2 · Science

adj. something that has had electricity passed through it.

adj. having been subjected to an electrical spark or discharge.

“The scientist examined the sparked gas to see how the molecules changed.”

“The experiment required a sparked mixture of hydrogen and oxygen to demonstrate the synthesis of water in a controlled environment.”

Technical

Synonyms

Real-World Examples

“These charges sparked anger, with critics accusing the government of using a draconian law to scupper a protest against the hotel project.”
BBC News · 18 Aug 2026
“High, and still rising, energy costs have sparked protests across the U.S.”
The Conversation · 12 Aug 2026

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

Scan code

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English Reference