(~s, flaring, ~d)
1.
A ~ is a small device that produces a bright flame. Flares are used as signals, for example on ships.
...a ship which had fired a distress ~.
N-COUNT
2.
If a fire ~s, the flames suddenly become larger.
Camp fires ~d like beacons in the dark.
VERB: V
•
Flare up means the same as ~ .
Don’t spill too much fat on the barbecue as it could ~ up.
PHRASAL VERB: V P
3.
If something such as trouble, violence, or conflict ~s, it starts or becomes more violent.
Even as the President appealed for calm, trouble ~d in several American cities.
VERB: V
•
Flare up means the same as ~ .
Dozens of people were injured as fighting ~d up.
PHRASAL VERB: V P
4.
If people’s tempers ~, they get angry.
Tempers ~d and harsh words were exchanged.
VERB: V
5.
If someone’s nostrils ~ or if they ~ them, their nostrils become wider, often because the person is angry or upset.
I turned to Jacky, my nostrils flaring in disgust...
He stuck out his tongue and ~d his nostrils.
VERB: V, V n
6.
If something such as a dress ~s, it spreads outwards at one end to form a wide shape.
...a simple black dress, cut to ~ from the hips.
VERB: V
7.
Flares are trousers that are very wide at the bottom.
N-PLURAL: also a pair of N
8.
see also ~d