flare
Translation
to blaze, to burn brightly, to widen, to break out
Examples
The small fire suddenly flared.
The small fire suddenly flared.
His nostrils flared in anger.
His nostrils flared in anger.
Tempers flared during the debate.
Tempers flared during the debate.
Grammar Patterns
((no object)) to burn brightly and suddenly The small fire suddenly flared.
((up)) to suddenly become active or violent Tempers flared up during the debate.
Similar Words
Synonyms: blaze, burn, erupt; Antonyms: dim, fade
Etymology
Origin uncertain, but likely related to flame and the idea of a sudden burst of light.
Memory Tips
Think of a camera lens flare, a sudden burst of light that spreads out.