kindling

word

Definition

Small, dry materials like sticks or paper used to start a fire easily.

Usage & Nuances

Usually an uncountable noun. Common collocations: 'gather kindling', 'put kindling under the logs'. Used mostly in the context of building a campfire or fireplace fire.

Example Sentences

We need some kindling to start the fire.

basic

She collected dry leaves as kindling.

basic

The campers put kindling under the logs.

basic

Do you have any kindling? The wood won't catch without it.

natural

Old newspapers make great kindling for the fireplace.

natural

The fire struggled at first, but once the kindling took, the logs burned well.

natural