kindling

(noun) material for starting a fire. Synonyms: tinder, touchwood, spunk, punk.

(noun) the act of setting something on fire. Synonyms: ignition, firing, lighting, inflammation.

(verb) catch fire. Synonyms: kindle, inflame. Example: "The dried grass of the prairie kindled, spreading the flames for miles."

(verb) cause to start burning. Synonyms: kindle, enkindle, conflagrate, inflame. Example: "The setting sun kindled the sky with oranges and reds."

(verb) call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses). Synonyms: arouse, elicit, enkindle, kindle, evoke, fire, raise, provoke. Examples: "Arouse pity." "Raise a smile." "Evoke sympathy."