Inflame
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3
Emotionally Charged
Used to describe actions or words likely to provoke a strong emotional response. Politicians often use rhetoric to inflame public sentiment.
Pro Tip 2/3
Negative Connotations
Mostly carries a negative sense, suggesting the arousal of negative feelings. The column's harsh criticism served to inflame the hostility between the two groups.
Pro Tip 3/3
Intensity Matter
Implies an increase in the intensity of existing emotions, not the creation of new ones. His dismissive comments only served to inflame their existing anger.