v. & n.
--v.
1. intr. & tr. widen or cause to widen gradually towards the top or bottom (flared trousers).
2 intr. & tr. burn or cause to burn suddenly with a bright unsteady flame.
3 intr. burst into anger; burst forth.
--n.
1. a a dazzling irregular flame or light, esp. in the open air. b a sudden outburst of flame.
2 a a signal light used at sea. b a bright light used as a signal. c a flame dropped from an aircraft to illuminate a target etc.
3 Astron. a sudden burst of radiation from a star.
4 a a gradual widening, esp. of a skirt or trousers. b (in pl.) wide-bottomed trousers.
5 an outward bulge in a ship's sides.
6 Photog. unnecessary illumination on a lens caused by internal reflection etc.
Phrases and idioms:
flare-path an area illuminated to enable an aircraft to land or take off. flare up
1. burst into a sudden blaze.
2 become suddenly angry or active. flare-up n. an outburst of flame, anger, activity, etc.
Etymology: 16th c.: orig. unkn.