v. Function: verb
to cause to become increasingly bitter or severe FF1C; foolish words that only exacerbated the quarrel FF1E;
Synonyms: acerbate, embitter, envenom
Related Words: annoy, exasperate, irritate, provoke; aggravate, heighten, intensify; inflame
Idioms: add fuel to the flame, fan the flames, feed the fire, pour oil on the fire
Contrasted Words: appease, mollify, pacify, placate, quell; lessen, moderate
Antonyms: assuage