flare

flare · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A sudden burst of bright light or flame.

  2. 2.

    A device that produces a bright light or flame, used as a signal or illumination.

  3. 3.

    A gradual widening, especially at the bottom of a garment.

  4. 4.

    A sudden outburst of emotion or worsening of a condition.

Forms

plural: flares

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    flare up — to suddenly become worse or more intense
  • •
    solar flare — an eruption of energy from the sun
  • •
    flare gun — a pistol that fires signal flares

Related words

Antonyms: dim, fade
See also: blaze, flame, flash
Synonyms: blaze, burst, flash

Etymology

Origin uncertain, possibly related to Norwegian flara ("to blaze") or Dutch flare ("to flutter"). First recorded in the 16th century.