Inflame \In*flame"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Inflamed; p. pr. &
vb. n. Inflaming.] [OE. enflamen, OF. enflamer, F.
enflammer, L. inflammare, inflammatum; pref. in- in +
flammare to flame, fr. flamma flame. See Flame.]
1. To set on fire; to kindle; to cause to burn, flame, or
glow.
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We should have made retreat
By light of the inflamed fleet. --Chapman.
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2. Fig.: To kindle or intensify, as passion or appetite; to
excite to an excessive or unnatural action or heat; as, to
inflame desire.
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Though more, it seems,
Inflamed with lust than rage. --Milton.
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But, O inflame and fire our hearts. --Dryden.
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3. To provoke to anger or rage; to exasperate; to irritate;
to incense; to enrage.
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It will inflame you; it will make you mad. --Shak.
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4. (Med.) To put in a state of inflammation; to produce
morbid heat, congestion, or swelling, of; as, to inflame
the eyes by overwork.
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5. To exaggerate; to enlarge upon. [Obs.]
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A friend exaggerates a man's virtues, an enemy
inflames his crimes. --Addison.
Syn: To provoke; fire; kindle; irritate; exasperate; incense;
enrage; anger; excite; arouse.
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