verb (used with object), ig·nit·ed, ig·nit·ing.
- to set on fire; kindle.
- Chemistry. to heat intensely; roast.
verb (used without object), ig·nit·ed, ig·nit·ing.
- to take fire; begin to burn.
verb
- to catch fire or set fire to; burn or cause to burn
- (tr) chem to heat strongly
- (tr) to stimulate or provokethe case has ignited a nationwide debate
1660s, from Latin ignitus, past participle of ignire “set on fire,” from ignis “fire” (see igneous). Attested earlier as an adjective (1550s). Related: Ignited; igniting.