catch fire

phrase

Synonyms of catch firenext
1
: to become ignited
2
: to become fired with enthusiasm
3
: to increase greatly in scope, popularity, interest, or effectiveness
The idea failed to catch fire.

Examples of catch fire in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ozon initially said that its logistics facilities in the cities of Orenburg and Ufa were attacked, but neither of the premises caught fire. — Hanna Arhirova, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026 The impact sheared the pole and caused the vehicle to catch fire. — Richard Ramos, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026 One of the competing robots also caught fire on the ground, while others were stretchered off by the people involved in the games. — James Peckham, PC Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026 How these two investments caught fire can be understood in the context of several developments this week. — Michelle Chapman, Fortune, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for catch fire

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of catch fire was in the 15th century

Rhymes for catch fire

See All Rhymes for catch fire

Browse Nearby Words

catcher pouch
catch fire
catchfly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Catch fire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catch%20fire. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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