flare
word
Definition
A sudden bright light or burst of fire; also a device or signal used for lighting or attracting attention. As a verb, it can mean to become wider at the end or to suddenly get worse or stronger.
Usage & Nuances
'Flare' is used for both literal bright lights and figurative sudden increases (e.g., tempers flare, pain flares up). As a noun, often seen in emergencies ('signal flare'). As a verb, commonly used for clothes that widen at the bottom ('flare jeans') and for things that increase suddenly ('flare up'). Rare in informal use except 'flare up'.
Example Sentences
The soldier fired a flare into the sky.
basic
Her jeans flare at the bottom.
basic
A sudden flare lit up the night.
basic
His temper tends to flare when he's stressed.
natural
The pain in her knee started to flare up again.
natural
We used a red flare to signal for help from the boat.
natural