Emblaze

/ɪmˈbleɪz/ verb

Definition

An obsolete or archaic term meaning to set on fire, to blaze up, or to make bright with flames.

Etymology

From the prefix 'em-' (cause to be) combined with 'blaze,' derived from Old English 'blæse' meaning a bright flame or light. This word gradually became replaced by more common terms like 'set ablaze.'

Kelly Says

Emblaze is one of those medieval words that makes you realize how many ways English had to describe fire before modern times—ember, flame, blaze, kindle, ignite—showing that fire was central to people's lives and speech.

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