To ignite something is to set it on fire or make it start burning. It can also mean to start a powerful feeling or situation, like igniting interest or conflict.
From Latin "ignire" meaning "to set on fire," from "ignis" meaning "fire." The word later took on metaphorical senses related to starting emotions or events.
Ignition happens when heat, fuel, and oxygen line up just right—too little of any one, and nothing happens. The same pattern shows up in human life: ideas, energy, and timing all have to align before something really "catches fire."
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.