Enfire

/ɛnˈfaɪər/ verb

Definition

To set on fire or to subject to gunfire from firearms.

Etymology

From 'en-' (to cause to be) plus 'fire.' Emerged in military terminology to mean both literal burning and the act of shooting at someone.

Kelly Says

This is a word that gets double duty: it can mean lighting something ablaze or opening fire with guns. Medieval soldiers used both meanings simultaneously when burning fortifications while under fire!

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