the bomb was set off : DETONATE, explode, blow up, touch off, trigger; ignite.
it set off a wave of protest : GIVE RISE TO, cause, lead to, set in motion, occasion, bring about, initiate, precipitate, prompt, trigger (off), spark (off), touch off, provoke, incite.
the blue dress set off her auburn hair : ENHANCE, bring out, emphasize, show off, throw into relief; complement.
2192; headword