Étincelle (en. Spark)

/e.tɛ̃.sɛl/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A small flame or temporary light.
The spark from the candle lit up the room.
L'étincelle de la bougie a illuminé la pièce.
A flash of light, like that produced by a firework.
The sparks from the firework dazzled the audience.
Les étincelles du feu d'artifice ont ébloui le public.
A symbol of something that begins, such as creativity or inspiration.
This idea was the spark that launched his project.
Cette idée a été l'étincelle qui a lancé son projet.

Etymology

From Old French 'estincelle', derived from Latin 'stincella' (glow, brilliance).

Common Phrases and Expressions

to awaken a spark
Susceptible to creating interest or passion.
éveiller une étincelle
the spark of love
The moment or feeling that triggers a romantic passion.
l'étincelle de l'amour
a spark of hope
A small positive sign in a difficult situation.
une étincelle d'espoir

Related Words

sparkling
Who shines intensely, very bright.
étincelant
sparkling
The act of shining, emitting flashes of light.
étincellement
spark maker
A tool or device that produces sparks, often used in welding.
étinceleur

Slang Meanings

A moment of excellent inspiration.
That song was the spark that inspired me.
Cette chanson a été l'étincelle qui m'a inspiré.
A small argument or conflict that ends up with tension.
Their exchanges were full of sparks.
Leurs échanges étaient pleins d'étincelles.