flame

noun

1. the burning gas or vapor of a fire, seen as a flickering light of various colors; blaze
2. a tongue of light rising from a fire
3. the state of burning with a blaze of light to burst into flame
4. 1. a thing like a flame in heat, brilliance, etc.
   2. brilliance or bright coloring
5. an intense emotion; strong passion
6. Informal a personal attack, harsh criticism, etc., specif. when communicated by e-mail
7. a sweetheart

Etymology: ME < OFr flamme (< L flamma) & flambe < L flammula, dim. of flamma < base of flagrare, to burn: see flagrant

intransitive verb flamed, flaming flam′·ing

1. to burn with a blaze of light; burst into flame
2. to light up with color as if blazing; grow red or hot a face flaming with anger
3. to show intense emotion; become very excited

Etymology: ME flammen < OFr flamer < L flammare

transitive verb

1. Now Rare to burn or heat with flame
2. to treat with flame
3. Informal to attack or harshly criticize, as by e-mail
4. Cooking to douse with alcoholic liquor and set afire flame the roast with brandy