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Glite Dictionary
to deflagrate

to deflagrate

1 9.9
To burn quickly with strong heat and flame but not explode
  • verb
  • /ˈdɛfləˌɡreɪt/
  • Specialized
: deflagrar
  • The technician used a controlled spark to deflagrate the substance safely.

Examples

  • When the magnesium ribbon is ignited, it will deflagrate quickly, producing a bright flame and intense heat.

  • Because the powder can deflagrate violently, only experienced personnel are allowed to handle it.

  • Careful measures must be taken when chemicals are deflagrated in the laboratory.

  • The chemical will deflagrate when exposed to heat.

  • When ignited, the mixture deflagrates rapidly.

  • The fireworks will deflagrate in the air, creating a stunning display without any explosions.

  • Under the right conditions, certain chemicals will deflagrate rapidly, generating flames but avoiding an explosion.

Synonyms

to burn
vsto deflagrate
∞ 1.0

To be on fire or damage something with heat

is a specific rapid intense burning that does not explode
to blaze
vsto deflagrate
27 3.4

To burn or shine with very bright light

is similar in brightness but emphasizes rapid heat without exploding
to combust
vsto deflagrate
13 7.4

To catch fire or make something burn

is a quicker, more intense burning that still avoids explosion
to burn up
vsto deflagrate
12 4.6

To light up suddenly with a strong flame or bright light

is also rapid and intense but never causes explosions
to alit
vsto deflagrate
  • Archaic
1 9.9

To start to burn suddenly and brightly

is faster and hotter yet explicitly non explosive

Antonyms

to explode
591 2.8

To burst suddenly and violently, making a loud noise and flying pieces

How Fast

to blaze
27 3.4
to deflagrate
  • Specialized
1 9.9
to burn
∞ 1.0
to smolder
  • US
31 6.6

Surface Forms

deflagrate infinitive
deflagrated past
deflagrated past participle
deflagrating present participle
deflagrates third person singular

Morphology

deflagrate = flagrate (semi-transparent) = de + flagrate

'de-' + 'flagrate' is analyzable, but the base 'flagrate' is rare and 'de-' here is not a straightforward negative, so learners may be misled.

Etymology

The word deflagrate comes from the Latin parts de- and flagrare, meaning 'to burn'. It is related to the English word flame, so deflagrate means to burn very quickly with a strong flame rather than to explode.