I. ˈkindliŋ, -lēŋ, rapid -nl- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from gerund of kindlen to kindle (ignite) — more at kindle I
1.
a. : an act or instance of igniting
the kindling of a bonfire
b. : an act or instance of exciting or causing to glow
a kindling of enthusiasm
looking at the sunset, watching the kindling of the clouds — Susan Ertz
2. : easily combustible material of a convenient size for starting a fire
crumpled paper makes good kindling for the stove
a famous old covered bridge that was carried away and crushed to kindling … in the spring flood — American Guide Series: Connecticut
II. noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from gerund of kindlen (to give birth) — more at kindle III
: an act of giving birth — used chiefly of a rabbit