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Afire - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Afire means burning or on fire, either literally or metaphorically. It can describe flames or intense emotions like passion or excitement. Example: The forest was set afire by lightning.

afire

/əˈfaɪr/ /əˈfaɪə/

Definition:

Burning or in flames; filled with passion or excitement.

Synonyms:

ablaze, burning, flaming, ignited, alight

Part of Speech:

adjective, adverb

Antonyms:

extinguished, cold

Common Collocations:

set afire, eyes afire, hearts afire, buildings afire

Derivatives:

afirely (rare), afireness (rare)

Usage Tips:

Use "afire" to describe literal flames or metaphorical intensity (e.g., "her eyes were afire with determination").

Common Phrases:

hearts afire, set the world afire, minds afire

Etymology:

From Old English "on fȳr," meaning "on fire," combining "a-" (on) and "fire."

Examples:

  • 1. The cabin was set afire by a lightning strike.
  • 2. Her speech left the crowd afire with inspiration.
  • 3. The forest lay afire after the dry summer.
  • 4. His anger left his words afire with intensity.

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