set on fire

Verb

set on fire (third-person singular simple present sets on fire, present participle setting on fire, simple past set on fire, past participle set on fire or (dialectal) setten on fire)

1. (transitive) To cause to begin to burn.
   • I don't want to set the world on fire / I just want to start a flame in your heart1941 [1938], Bennie Benjamin, Eddie Durham, Sol Marcus, Eddie Seiler, “I Don't Want to Set the World on Fire” (0:05 from the start), performed by The Ink Spots, Decca

   Synonyms:

   set afire, set alight, set fire to, set ablaze, set aflame, aflame, alight, conflagrate, fire, fire up

2. (figuratively, transitive) To arouse passionate feelings in.
   • You set my heart on fire.

   Synonyms:

   set fire to, inflame, ignite, inspire, excite, rouse, animate, awaken, electrify, enflame