Flame: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
August 17, 2025

1. Flame (noun): A hot, glowing body of ignited gas that emits light and heat.
2. Flame (noun): A strong feeling or emotion, often passionate or intense.
3. Flame (verb): To burn brightly and intensely.
4. Flame (noun): A person or thing that inspires admiration or passion.

"Flame" Definition: What Does "Flame" Mean?

The word "flame" carries multiple meanings, from its literal application as a physical phenomenon to its figurative use in describing strong emotions or inspirations. This term is versatile and appears frequently in both scientific and poetic contexts.

Definition of "Flame": Glowing Body of Gas

The primary definition of "flame" refers to a hot, luminous body of gas produced by combustion. It is often associated with fire and heat.

Definition of "Flame": Intense Emotion

The term also symbolizes intense or passionate feelings, such as love or anger, commonly used in literature and everyday conversation.

Definition of "Flame": To Burn Brightly

As a verb, "flame" describes the act of burning or glowing intensely, often used to depict literal or figurative brilliance.

Definition of "Flame": Source of Admiration

In a symbolic sense, "flame" refers to someone or something that inspires great passion or admiration.

Parts of Speech

The term "flame" functions as both a noun and a verb, broadening its range of use in communication. While most common as a noun, its verb form effectively describes dynamic or figurative actions.

How to Pronounce "Flame"?

The word "flame" is pronounced as "FLAYM." It has one syllable, with the emphasis naturally placed on the whole word. The beginning, "fl," sounds like the "fl" in "fly," and the ending, "ame," rhymes with "same." When pronouncing "flame," ensure the sound is smooth and continuous, blending both parts seamlessly.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /fleɪm/

Synonyms of "Flame": Other Ways to Say "Flame"

Synonyms for "flame" vary depending on its context.

  • Fire
  • Blaze
  • Glow
  • Heat
  • Passion
  • Fervor
  • Admiration
  • Infatuation

Antonyms of "Flame": Other Ways to Say "Flame"

The antonyms of "flame" often describe the absence of heat, light, or passion.

  • Cold
  • Frost
  • Darkness
  • Apathy
  • Indifference
  • Extinguish
  • Calm
  • Coolness

Examples of "Flame" in a Sentence

Here are ten sentences demonstrating the use of "flame" in different contexts:

1. The campfire's flame flickered against the night sky.
2. Her cheeks burned with a flame of embarrassment.
3. The candle flamed brightly in the dim room.
4. He described her as the flame of his life.
5. The old love letters reignited the flame in her heart.
6. The forest fire spread, with flames consuming the trees.
7. Their argument flared up like a sudden flame.
8. The torch's flame guided them through the dark cave.
9. The boy's eyes burned with the flame of determination.
10. The paper caught a flame and turned to ash.

Frequency of Use

The term "flame" appears frequently in literature, poetry, and everyday speech. It is a versatile word that adapts to both literal and metaphorical applications, often symbolizing intensity or inspiration.

Variants of "Flame"

Variants of the word "flame" reflect slight modifications in form or context.

  1. Flaming: Describes something actively burning or glowing.
  2. Flamed: The past tense of the verb, indicating something that burned or glowed in the past.
  3. Flamer: A person or thing that emits flames or inspires passion.
  4. Flame-like: Resembling or imitating a flame in appearance or intensity.

Related Terms to "Flame"

Here are some related terms that connect to the concept of "flame":

  1. Fire
  2. Burn
  3. Glow
  4. Spark
  5. Heat
  6. Light
  7. Torch
  8. Inferno
  9. Ember
  10. Combustion

Etymology: History and Origins of "Flame"

The word "flame" originates from the Latin term flamma, meaning "flame" or "blaze." Its use evolved through Old French (flam) before being incorporated into Middle English as "flame."

Derivatives and Compounds of "Flame"

Here are some derivatives and compounds of "flame":

  1. Flaming torch: A burning source of light used in ceremonies or traditions.
  2. Flameproof: Resistant to catching fire or burning.
  3. Flame-resistant: Designed to reduce the risk of ignition.
  4. Flameout: A sudden cessation of a flame, often in engines.

Common Misspellings of "Flame"

Here are some common misspellings of the word "flame":

  1. Flaim
  2. Flam
  3. Phlame
  4. Flayme
  5. Flaime

10 Idioms Similar to "Flame"

These idioms share a figurative meaning or symbolism similar to "flame":

  1. Fan the flames
  2. Burning desire
  3. Set the world on fire
  4. Light a fire under someone
  5. Burn bright
  6. Flame of passion
  7. Fire in the belly
  8. Burning with ambition
  9. Keep the flame alive
  10. Spark a fire

10 Common Questions About "Flame"

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about "flame":

1. What does "flame" literally mean?
It refers to a hot, glowing body of ignited gas commonly associated with fire.

2. Can "flame" symbolize emotions?
Yes, it often symbolizes intense feelings like passion or love.

3. Is "flame" used figuratively in literature?
Yes, it is frequently used to depict emotions, inspiration, or admiration.

4. What are some common synonyms for "flame"?
Fire, blaze, glow, and passion are common synonyms.

5. What is the origin of "flame"?
It originates from the Latin term "flamma," meaning "blaze" or "fire."

6. What is the verb form of "flame" used for?
It describes the act of burning or glowing brightly.

7. Is "flame" used in science?
Yes, it is often used in combustion and chemical reactions.

8. What is a "flameout" in aviation?
It refers to the sudden extinguishing of an engine's flame.

9. Can "flame" mean a romantic interest?
Yes, it can describe someone admired or loved passionately.

10. How is "flame" used metaphorically?
It is used to symbolize intensity, inspiration, or strong feelings.

Conclusion

The term "flame" refers to a hot, glowing body of gas and symbolizes strong feelings or passions. Its versatility makes it a staple in scientific, poetic, and everyday contexts. Use "flame" to add vivid imagery or convey intensity in your speech and writing.

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