inflame
Translation
to inflame, to provoke, to aggravate, to anger
Examples
His comments only inflamed the situation.
His comments only inflamed the situation.
The wound became red and inflamed.
The wound became red and inflamed.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to provoke or worsen (a situation or feeling) His speech inflamed the passions of the crowd.
((sth.)) to cause inflammation in (a part of the body) The infection inflamed his throat.
Similar Words
Synonyms: provoke, aggravate, anger; Antonyms: calm, soothe, pacify
Etymology
From Latin 'in-' (into) + 'flammare' (to set on fire), from 'flamma' (flame).
Memory Tips
Think of putting something 'in' a 'flame' to set it on fire, which can apply to emotions or situations.