rekindle
UK[ˌriːˈkɪndl]US[ˌriːˈkɪndl]
v
to make someone have a feeling they used to have; to make something become active again
v
to make something start burning again
Morpheme Breakdown
re
kindle
re
again
kindle
to light a fire
Etymology
the word 'rekindle' is a transparent compound formed within english. its first element, the latin-derived prefix 're-', meaning "again", was attached to the existing english verb 'kindle'. 'kindle' itself has a fiery history, entering middle english from old norse 'kynda', which is related to old english 'cyndan' (to kindle). the core concept of lighting a fire is preserved from its germanic roots. therefore, the literal meaning "to light a fire again" provides a perfect metaphorical basis for its modern abstract senses of reviving feelings or activities, illustrating how a physical action evolves into a psychological or figurative one.
Analysis
Structure: re (again) + kindle (to light a fire)
re: latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "back".
kindle: of old norse origin (from 'kynda'), meaning "to set fire to" or "to ignite".
Examples
the heartfelt tribute helped to rekindle old memories of their friendship.
the peace talks aim to rekindle hope for a diplomatic solution.
he used dry twigs to rekindle the dying campfire.