B2noun2K

Flame

UK /["/fleɪm/"]/US /["/fleɪm/"]/

Definition

a hot bright stream of burning gas that comes from something that is on fire

In simple words: A flame is a fire's bright, hot part that produces light.

Examples

The flame of the candle flickered in the dark room.
As the fire grew, the flames danced in the night sky.
She felt a flame of passion ignite within her when she heard the music.
The chef adjusted the flame on the stove to achieve the perfect simmer.
He was known for his criticisms, often delivering them with a flame of intensity.

Usage notes

Use 'flame' to describe fire in general or specific fiery colors. Avoid in formal writing, where 'fire' might be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'flame' as a bright 'fame' that lights up the dark.

Collocations

blazing
burning
crackling
be engulfed in
go up in
burst into
roar
die down
spread
in flames

Synonyms

fire
blaze
conflagration
flare

Antonyms

cold
extinguish

Common mistakes

'Flame' confused with 'fire' as synonyms but they can have different usages.
Using 'flame' when referring to wider fire contexts instead of just the visible part
Think 'flame' cannot be used in idioms, but it's often part of phrases like 'fan the flames'.