a hot glowing body of ignited gas that is generated by something on fire, a strong feeling of passion or love

burst into flames, carry a torch (for someone), flame war

fan the flames, go up in flames, flame out

Formal and Informal Expressions of flame

In different contexts, you can replace 'flame' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'ignited gas, passion' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'fire, crush' is a commonplace synonym.

flame: Explore its Definition & Usage

flame Definition

1a hot glowing body of ignited gas that is generated by something on fire
2a strong feeling of passion or love

Using flame: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "flame" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The flame of the candle flickered in the breeze.
Example
The house was engulfed in flames.
Example
He still held a flame for his ex-girlfriend.
Example
She felt a flame of anger rise within her.

flame Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for flame

Antonyms for flame

Idioms Using flame

burst into flames
to suddenly catch fire
Example
The car burst into flames after crashing into the tree.
carry a torch (for someone)
to have romantic feelings for someone who does not reciprocate those feelings
Example
He's been carrying a torch for her since high school, but she's never shown any interest in him.
flame war
an online argument that becomes very heated and hostile
Example
The discussion forum quickly devolved into a flame war, with insults and personal attacks flying back and forth.

Phrases with flame

fan the flames
to make a bad situation worse, especially by encouraging arguments or violence
Example
The politician's speech only served to fan the flames of hatred and division.
go up in flames
to be destroyed by fire
Example
The old warehouse went up in flames, destroying everything inside.
flame out
to fail suddenly and completely
Example
The young athlete flamed out after a promising start to his career.

Origins of flame

from Old English 'flamme'

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Summary: flame in Brief

The term 'flame' [fleɪm] refers to a hot glowing body of ignited gas, often generated by something on fire. It also denotes a strong feeling of passion or love, as in 'He still held a flame for his ex-girlfriend.' Phrases like 'fan the flames' and 'go up in flames' extend the metaphorical use of 'flame,' while idioms like 'carry a torch (for someone)' and 'flame war' highlight its emotional connotations.